Greater Harlem Chamber of Commerce 125th Anniversary Gala

The Greater Harlem Chamber of Commerce’s 125th Anniversary Gala was being co-emceed by Debi B. Jackson and Myself, and the atmosphere was electric.

The air was filled with animated conversation that was occasionally broken up by laughing and applause. As we paid tribute to this venerable organization, it was a night of joy, introspection, and appreciation.

We had the pleasure of introducing the honorees and speakers, as well as sharing some of my thoughts about two of the honorees, president Michael Pugh of Carver Federal Savings Bank and director Joy Bivins of the Schomburg Center for Research in Black Culture, who were both special guests on the podcast “WHAT’S HOT! HarlemAmerica with G. Keith Alexander”. Everyone of the honorees—from businesspeople to public officials to community institutions—had significantly aided the Chamber’s aim of economic empowerment and cultural preservation.

The Uptown Dancing School rocked the house with their electrifying performances, while the Jeff Foxx Band kept us all in the groove with its soulful music. It served as a reminder of the Chamber’s function of encouraging and presenting the artistic talent that is so fundamental to Harlem’s character.

But more than the entertainment, I was most struck by the atmosphere of community and connection that saturated the space. To commemorate this achievement, pay tribute to the past, and look toward the future, people from all walks of life had joined together. It served as a timely reminder that the Chamber’s efforts go far beyond business and culture and instead focus on building a thriving, equitable, and inclusive community for all.

I was thankful to be a part of such a vibrant and inspiring group as the evening came to an end. For 125 years, the Greater Harlem Chamber of Commerce has been a positive influence, and I have no doubt that it will remain so for a very long time to come. Appreciate this highlight video.