The streets of Harlem were filled with fanfare and the fluttering flags of African and Caribbean countries Sunday as hundreds of people turned out to celebrate the 48th African American Day Parade.
“It’s wonderful. I’ve been coming every year,” said Ruby Anderson, 72, of Harlem. “The drums keep me dancing. It’s lovely. I like the flags, all the colors. It’s good every year.”
“It’s good that they include everyone here. I grew up in Harlem. As the area gets more gentrified, it’s good to celebrate Harlem culture,” said Frances Scherrod, 53. “I’ve been coming for the last 15 years. I hope to continue coming here. We need to celebrate African-American culture.”
Mayor de Blasio, his wife, Chirlane McCray, the Rev. Al Sharpton, the Rev. Jesse Jackson and City Council Speaker Melissa Mark-Viverito were among those who marched along the Adam Clayton Powell Jr. Blvd. parade route.
The parade is held each year on the third Sunday in September.
Longtime Harlem resident Clementine Edgreton cheered as she saw the mayor walk past.
“Over here Bill! Get him over here!” she called out. “I love him. I love everything about him! He blew me a kiss. He shows up every year. I love that about him.”
Christine Hunter, 55, was equally excited.
“He’s a great mayor. We love him in Harlem. He’s done so much for the city,” she said. “The parade is great, too. It’s a great celebration.”
Some marchers called attention to social issues, carrying signs that read, “Stop NYCHA! Stop Pushing Out The Poor!”
“We need to tell NYCHA No! You need to call your elected official and say ‘No!’ ” a woman called out over a megaphone, referring to the New York City Housing Authority’s desire to build high-end housing on public land.
