Remembering and ruminating on Harlem Week

Editor's Note: Earlier this year, we grieved the loss of Congressman Charlie Rangel, Harlem's Hero and the “Lion of Lenox Avenue.” Always a champion and defender of New York's Black community, one of his favorite celebrations of it was Harlem Week.

- By CONGRESSMAN CHARLES B. RANGEL

To him, Harlem Week was a showcase of the best the enclave had to offer, river to river. Last year, he wrote this oped for the AmNews about why the event is important, and we wanted to offer his thoughts again as a remembrance.

Lots of people think that Harlem Week is actually Lloyd Williams Week, and they may have that impression because he has worked so tirelessly to make it successful over the last 50 years. He is more satisfied with the results than making people know the role he has played. People have no idea how important [the role] his reputation plays in attracting supporters, sponsors, and talent; how difficult it is to maintain that high standard and to do that for half a century is remarkable, given how things change from generation to generation.