BY Led Black (@Led_Black)
Photography by Ruben Henriquez
I have to say that I have never felt more proud to be part of this community than yesterday. The arts, culture, style and sophistication of this neighborhood were on full display and in abundance at the kick-off for the 2011 Uptown Arts Stroll. There was some serious star power in the building as well, Actor Manny Perez (one of the night’s honorees), Pulitzer-Prize winning author Junot Diaz and Super model Omahyra Mota. I would be remiss if I didn’t mention the members of the extended Uptown Collective family, the Bago Bunch for the wonderful work they put in to make this, in my humble estimation, the best Uptown Arts Stroll ever.
The fact that it was held at the Malcolm X & Dr. Betty Shabazz Memorial and Educational Center made the night even more special for me. We were literally only steps away from where the African-American giant was slain. I think it was only fitting to have such a celebration of the rebirth and resurgence of this neighborhood in the very place that embodies that exact notion. The Shabazz Center, which was formerly the Audubon Ballroom, is a moving, art-infused testament to the living, breathing vision and scope of Malcolm X. The Uptown Renaissance is in full effect. Spread love it’s the Uptown way!
Also check out:
An Auspicious Night for the 2011 Uptown Art Stroll
The 2011 Uptown Arts Stroll Kick-Off As Seen By Briana E. Heard
The 2011 Uptown Arts Stroll Kick-Off Told Through Tweets
The 2011 Uptown Arts Stroll Kick-Off In Black & White
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