Black History Month

Davis was a legend in Olympic weightlifting who remained unbeaten for most of his near two decades-long career.

The name Aaliyah means the "most exalted one."

Thompson made history when he became the first African-American state senator to represent Brooklyn in 1965.

Judge Betty Staton co-founded the first African-American female law firm in the state of New York.

Hakeem Jeffries was elected unopposed as House Democratic Leader for the 118th Congress in November 2022, becoming the first African American to lead a party caucus in either chamber of Congress.

Lena Horne broke barriers as one of the first, highly acclaimed Black actresses in Hollywood who used her status to speak on behalf of civil rights for all.

Eric Adams has had a long career in public service to the residents of New York City, culminating in his current post as mayor.

The singer, songwriter and multi-instrumentalist has been ranked among the 100 Greatest Artists of Hard Rock.

Michael Jordan is widely considered one of the best basketball players of all time.

Raised in Crown Heights, Dr. McKinney Steward was the first Black woman to earn a medical degree in New York.