Harlem celebrates these local leaders who have contributed so much to the rich tapestry of Harlem. The evening will conclude with a community dialogue on immigration’s cultural, economic, and artistic impact on Harlem led by Desiree Elder, artistic director of New Heritage Theatre Group. Honorees include: — Janet Rodriguez, of Dominican heritage, founder of groundbreaking SoHarlem, incubator for textile jobs. —Arturo O’Farrill, Mexican-born, Grammy award-winning musician and founder of Casa Belongó Music and Arts Center, in East Harlem. —Tomo Mori, Japanese-born painter, collage, textile, and fiber artist and Children’s Art Carnival communications manager whose work “promotes a vibrant multicultural community.” —Cisse Elhadji, Senegal-born, renowned chef and owner of Ponty Bistro and three other Harlem restaurants. —Joanna Castro, of Venezuelan and Irish-American heritage, Senior Director of Programs for West Harlem Development Corp. —In memoriam, Jamaican-born community leader Lloyd A. Williams, former president and chief executive of the Greater Harlem Chamber of Commerce and co-founder of Harlem Week. Performers include: · The Fat Afro Latin Jazz Cats, a youth group conducted by Zack O’Farrill. · The award-winning Harlem Japanese Gospel Choir organized by Kimiko Matsau with music direction by Minister Melody Moore. · West African storytelling and drumming with renowned storyteller Dr. Linda Humes of Yaffa Cultural Arts, and drummer Sanga of the Valley.
New York City, NY; NYC