Harlem has lost a huge staple of the neighborhood. Lloyd Williams, the co-founder of Harlem Week, passed away on Wednesday after a battle with prostate cancer. He was 80 years old.
According to reports, Williams always played a part in his Harlem community starting from a young age and would dedicate his life to making his community better. In doing so, he would bridge economic development and civic engagement throughout the neighborhood.
While Harlem was going through a difficult time, Williams thought of a way to spread positivity for the residents by co-founding Harlem Week. His friend, Marko Nobles, spoke highly of Williams. “I’m blessed to have had him around as a mentor, second father, another uncle to my kids, he’s uncle Lloyd, so it’s a difficult day,” Nobles said. He added, “Today we grieve, but we continue in what he would want, and continue Harlem Week.”
Founded in 1974, originally as a one-day event, it turned into a week-long celebration that displays the community’s history, culture, and local businesses with block parties, festivals, performances, and more.
Williams, who was the President and CEO of the Greater Harlem Chamber of Commerce, helped the economic growth and transformation of Harlem. A close friend of Williams said, “I credit him as being part of the rebirth of Harlem. The Harlem we see today with big, beautiful new buildings and condos, and hotels. I think Lloyd had a vision for that, probably 50 years ago, and he saw it to fruition.”
The Greater Chamber of Commerce also released a statement on the passing of Lloyd Williams. “For more than 50 years, Lloyd has worked tirelessly to improve the quality of life and shape both the cultural and economic identity of not just Harlem but the city as a whole. While we mourn his loss, HARLEM WEEK will continue as planned. Our theme this year is “Celebrate Our Magic,” which is fitting because Lloyd always celebrated the magic of his beloved community.”
Williams will always be remembered for everything that he’s done for Harlem, and his legacy will continue to live on. We will continue to keep his family and loved ones in our thoughts and prayers during this time.