Black Power Players

Adrienne Eadie Adams is the speaker of the New York City Council, leading the most diverse and first women-majority city council as the first Black speaker. She is also the first woman to represent Council District 28. Prior to serving in the council, Speaker Adams served as chair of Queens Community Board 12, and she worked as a corporate trainer and child development associate instructor. A mother and grandmother, Speaker Adams lives in Jamaica, Queens.

If you could give your younger-self advice, what would it be?
My advice to my younger self is to lead with heart and a clear purpose of serving the people of your community. Believe in yourself because you are good enough – just by being you. Never stop dreaming and believe in your dreams.

What are you most proud of accomplishing in 2023, and most looking forward to achieving in 2024?
I’m proud of the Council’s work to advance solutions to address entrenched inequities that impact New Yorkers. The Council passed legislation to improve mental health outcomes and advance new solutions that make communities safer, like expanding access to victim services. I’m also proud of our work to equitably confront the housing crisis, including passage of my Fair Housing Framework Act. These issues will require continued work, which I look forward to building on in 2024.

Do you have any movie/music/book recommendations for readers to check out in celebration of Black History Month?
I would recommend “Heart of a Woman” by Maya Angelou and “Becoming” by Michelle Obama.

Is there a person or organization doing particularly inspiring work that you would like to spotlight?
In my southeast Queens district, there are so many organizations that are working hard every day to support the health and safety of our communities. From our Crisis Management System (CMS) groups that are supporting victims of gun violence, to food pantries that are feeding families daily, these unsung heroes are doing inspiring work in #TheGreat28 and beyond.

Mayor Eric Adams has served the people of New York City as an NYPD officer, state senator, Brooklyn borough president, and now as the 110th Mayor of the City of New York. Mayor Adams is a lifelong New Yorker and a proud product of New York City public schools, including Bayside High School in Queen. His administration is committed to empowering a diverse coalition of working families in all five boroughs and is leading the fight to bring back New York City’s economy, reduce inequality, improve public safety, and build a stronger, healthier city that delivers for all New Yorkers. He received a master’s degree in public administration from Marist College, and is a graduate of New York City Technical College and the John Jay College of Criminal Justice. Today he lives in Bedford-Stuyvesant, where he has resided for over 20 years. 

Jomo Akono is a proud father and grandfather. He is a 19-year member of Carpenters Local 276. Akono is a council representative for the North Atlantic States Regional Council of Carpenters (NASRCC), a trustee on the Local 276 executive board, committee member on the NASRCC executive board, a trustee on the North Atlantic States Carpenters Labor Management Program, and a board member for Buffalo and Erie County Workforce Investment board. He is also a radio producer on the Legendary WUFO. 

If you could give your younger-self advice, what would it be?
Take the Life Journey one step at a time and take notes on all lessons learned, even the difficult ones.

What are you most proud of accomplishing in 2023, and most looking forward to achieving in 2024?
Finally getting a carpenter trained pre-apprentice program for inner-city and under-skilled youth who need concentrated access to career opportunities. In 2024 we are planning to introduce the same program to high school seniors who wish to enter directly into the Carpenters Apprenticeship Program.

Do you have any movie/music/book recommendations for readers to check out in celebration of Black History Month?
Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King’s last book, “Where Do We Go From Here: Chaos or Community”

Is there a person or organization doing particularly inspiring work that you would like to spotlight?
I would like to spotlight Franchelle Parker with the organization Open Buffalo.

Kevin has served as president and CEO of Rockaway Development and Revitalization (RDRC) for 16+ years. During his tenure Kevin has raised and deployed approximately $40 million in programs and services focused on youth leadership, workforce development, small business assistance, homeownership and commercial revitalization. Kevin has elevated the profile and role of RDRC in community and economic development by establishing strategic partnerships with public and private sector entities, community based organizations, and faith-based institutions.

If you could give your younger-self advice, what would it be?
Deliberate patience, patience, and more patience – better sometimes to take the extra time to get it right rather than hurry and get it wrong because of external pressures.

What are you most proud of accomplishing in 2023, and most looking forward to achieving in 2024?
After several attempts, in early 2023 RDRC was awarded the coveted $4.5 million N.Y.S. Regional Economic Development Council N.Y. Forward competition for Downtown Far Rockaway. The N.Y. Forward capital grant will enable several community-based organizations to advance their projects that lacked funding. For 2024, we are looking forward to launching a local outdoor market utilizing customized cargo containers to activate a NYC DOT Plaza and provide local minority-owned businesses to establish the Beach 20th Street Market.

Do you have any movie/music/book recommendations for readers to check out in celebration of Black History Month?
Yes, two recommendations: “The 1619 Project” by Nicole Hannah-Jones is a New York Times best seller that documents the beginning of slavery in America in 1619. And, “Endurance: Shackleton’s Incredible Voyage” by Alfred Lansing documents the incredible journey led by Sir Ernest Shackleton by ship and foot across Antarctica. It shows the essence of adaptive leadership in the midst of crisis and environment.

Dr. Allen has devoted her career to helping marginalized and underserved patients. A longstanding veteran of the health care system, Dr. Allen completed her residency in obstetrics and gynecology at NYC Health + Hospitals, Jacobi, worked as an attending physician at Harlem and Bellevue hospitals, and served as the associate medical director at Bellevue until 2013 when she transitioned to system deputy chief medical officer (CMO). She was subsequently selected to be system CMO in 2017.

Ellen, with extensive experience in youth development, is dedicated to empowering underprivileged youth. As the senior director of programs at New Yorkers For Children, she leads impactful initiatives, fosters partnerships, and guides innovative youth programs. Formerly, as the director of Edgies Teen Center and College Prep Program at Educational Alliance, Ellen forged collaborations, engaged donors, and guided students through the college application process.

If you could give your younger-self advice, what would it be?
If I were to offer advice to my younger self, I would emphasize the importance of curiosity and a growth mindset. I would encourage exploration, continuous learning, and embracing challenges as opportunities for personal development. Additionally, I would stress the significance of balance, emphasizing the importance of maintaining a healthy equilibrium between work, personal life, and well-being. Overall, the advice would revolve around fostering resilience, embracing change, and staying true to one’s values.

What are you most proud of accomplishing in 2023, and most looking forward to achieving in 2024?
In 2023, I spearheaded the successful expansion of youth programs at New Yorkers For Children, strategically cultivating partnerships and contributing to the organization’s recognition in child welfare. Looking to 2024, my focus is on enhancing program impact by developing new initiatives, fostering key partnerships, and leveraging data-driven insights to meet evolving youth needs. I’m excited about advancing our advocacy efforts and strengthening our leadership in youth empowerment and development.

Do you have any movie/music/book recommendations for readers to check out in celebration of Black History Month?
“Hinsonville, A Community At The Crossroads: The Story of a Nineteenth-Century African-American Village” by Marianne H. Russo and Paul A. Russo

Is there a person or organization doing particularly inspiring work that you would like to spotlight?
New Yorkers For Children

Genesis Aquino is the executive director of New York State Tenants and Neighbors, a grassroots member-led organization that yields tenant power to preserve at-risk affordable housing and strengthen tenants’ rights. Aquino is also a member of the Rent Guidelines Board, where she plays an instrumental role in ensuring that rents remain affordable for New York City renters. As a staunch public servant, her career has focused on addressing the racial and socio-economic issues that impact Black and brown communities.

If you could give your younger-self advice, what would it be?
Grace is a superpower, cultivate it.

What are you most proud of accomplishing in 2023, and most looking forward to achieving in 2024?
In 2023 I am proud of the work of my team at T&N, as we grew a powerful base of tenant leaders committed to building on the movement to transform housing from a commodity to a guaranteed public good. In 2024, I am looking forward to continuing organizing to shift the power imbalance in Albany for tenants and win strong housing protections to help preserve the character and fabric of our neighborhoods against gentrification and displacement.

Do you have any movie/music/book recommendations for readers to check out in celebration of Black History Month?
I recently read “Building Resilient Organizations: Toward Joy and Durable Power in a Time of Crisis”, an article by Maurice Mitchell. He offers an assessment of the current dynamics within social justice organizations and pathways forward to realize “…movements that exude joy, build power, and secure critical victories for the masses of working people.” I found it very inspirational, it’s a pathway to collectively build the movements for freedom and democracy we so desperately need.

Is there a person or organization doing particularly inspiring work that you would like to spotlight?
I am very inspired by Juanita Lewis, the executive director of Community Voices Heard. She is a caring, dynamic leader. As a fellow Black woman in non-profit leadership, I admire her tenacity and deep commitment to creating a truly equitable New York, bringing wealth and power to the hands of everyday people.

Clayton Banks, the visionary CEO of Silicon Harlem, is an advocate for universal broadband, community growth, sustainable impact, and technology education. His leadership is proud to share the leadership to bring advanced technology research, internet services, convening the community, and tech education. A proponent of impact over profit, Mr. Banks, demystifies technology and fosters access and exposure for all. His commitment to innovation, community empowerment, and digital inclusivity defines his legacy in the tech landscape.

If you could give your younger-self advice, what would it be?
Trust in the journey, as the pursuit of meaningful impact is a marathon, not a sprint.

What are you most proud of accomplishing in 2023, and most looking forward to achieving in 2024?
In 2023, Mr. Banks took pride in advancing Silicon Harlem’s mission, notably with a new headquarters design, broadening tech access. An advocate for universal home internet, Mr. Banks envisions achieving this goal in the coming years. The 2024 vision includes the realization of the enhanced space’s positive impact on tech education and community engagement. Commendably, the commitment to accessibility and exposure reflects Silicon Harlem’s impactful achievements. 

Do you have any movie/music/book recommendations for readers to check out in celebration of Black History Month?
The movie “Hidden Figures”,  the song “Strange Fruit”, and the book “Soul Train: The Music, Dance, and Style of a Generation” by Questlove

Is there a person or organization doing particularly inspiring work that you would like to spotlight?
I am deeply inspired by the Greater Harlem Chamber of Commerce. Their dedication to economic growth, community development, and embracing technological inclusion with Silicon Harlem’s mission. The Chamber’s commitment to empowering businesses and individuals aligns with our shared vision for a more connected and prosperous future. Their initiatives such as HARLEM WEEK adds tech for all. I am inspired by the Greater Harlem Chamber of Commerce for their visionary leadership and meaningful contributions.

David Banks is chancellor of New York City Public Schools (NYCPS), the largest school system in the nation, where he has focused on transforming literacy instruction and reimagining college/career pathways. He was president and CEO of the Eagle Academy Foundation, which expanded the network of innovative all-boys public schools he founded. Over his lifelong career in education, he has served as a school safety officer, teacher, and principal. He is a proud product of NYCPS.

If you could give your younger-self advice, what would it be?
I would tell myself: stay the course and remain true to who you are. Through all the twists and turns in life, it’s easy to get distracted or off-track. But at the end of the day, your core values are the right ones, and they will serve you well.

What are you most proud of accomplishing in 2023, and most looking forward to achieving in 2024?
I am most proud of NYC Reads, our city-wide effort to transform literacy instruction and align it to the science of reading. We are finally getting our kids on track to be confident readers, and it’s a source of great pride for me. In 2024, I’m most looking forward to diving into A.I.—how it can be used to improve instruction, reimagine student learning, and shape the school experience in a whole new way.

Do you have any movie/music/book recommendations for readers to check out in celebration of Black History Month?
I would encourage readers to watch “Eyes on the Prize”, an award-winning documentary series that explores the Civil Rights Movement in this country in a very comprehensive and insightful way. I believe it’s critical for our country to fully and honestly grapple with its past—and this series helps with that.

Is there a person or organization doing particularly inspiring work that you would like to spotlight?
I want to highlight DoSomething.org, a nonprofit that has engaged millions of youth across the globe in social action projects and campaigns. Our young people don’t want to sit on the sidelines; they want to be leaders and changemakers in their communities. We must give them those opportunities, and DoSomething.org does just that, at a very impressive scale.

Deputy Mayor Philip Bank III is the former chief of community affairs and chief of department of the NYPD. Banks later resigned from the NYPD and joined the private sector, founding the security consulting firm, PB3. He was appointed deputy mayor for public safety Mayor Eric Adams. Throughout his career he has worked closely with civic, community, and religious leaders, and the public at large.