long-time advocate and co-founder of Harlem Week, Lloyd Williams, passes away at the age of 80
Harlem Week, one of New York City's most iconic neighborhood events, is currently underway and will continue through August 17, as planned. This year, the month-long festival takes on a special significance as it pays tribute to Lloyd A. Williams, the co-founder and longtime president and CEO of Harlem Week, who passed away on Tuesday at the age of 80.
Born and raised on 120th Street between Lenox and Seventh Avenues in Harlem, Williams was deeply rooted in the community he served. His love for Harlem was evident in his many contributions to the northern Manhattan community, which he often discussed in interviews, such as his conversation with your platform in 2024.
Williams died peacefully, surrounded by relatives, after a private and courageous battle with cancer. Winston Majette, the executive director of the Greater Harlem Chamber of Commerce (GHCC), confirmed Williams' death in a statement and asked for thoughts and prayers for his family.
The Greater Harlem Chamber of Commerce, under Williams' leadership, has been instrumental in transforming Harlem into one of the city's top tourist destinations. Standing among the top four for visitors from around the nation and the world, Harlem's popularity can be attributed in part to Williams' tireless efforts to promote small businesses, tourism, and investment in the area.
As a visionary co-founder and leader, Williams played a crucial role in expanding Harlem Week from a one-day event in 1974 to a major month-long festival celebrating Harlem’s arts, culture, and community. Under his guidance, the festival has grown to showcase the vibrant and world-famous community of Harlem, with particular pride in the number of colleges located in the area, including City College, Columbia, Teachers College, and the Manhattan School of Music.
Williams' impact extended beyond event organization; he was a central figure in Harlem's social and economic life whose calls convened key community and city leaders. He played a vital role in documenting Harlem's history and legacy, overseeing volumes like Forever Harlem and working on subsequent projects to preserve Harlem’s cultural heritage.
His leadership and contributions were recognized by peers, such as Michael T. Pugh, who highlighted Williams’ ability to build bridges, foster access to capital, and inspire generations by viewing Harlem’s greatness as both heritage and destiny.
Williams' legacy is defined by his dual focus on celebrating Harlem’s cultural identity through Harlem Week and advancing its economic vitality through GHCC leadership, making him an indispensable figure in Harlem’s modern history. In honour of Williams, this year's Harlem Week theme is 'Celebrate Our Magic,' a fitting tribute to Williams’ lifelong celebration of his community’s spirit.
For more than 50 years, Williams worked tirelessly to improve the quality of life and shape both the cultural and economic identity of Harlem and the city as a whole. His passing leaves a significant void, but his legacy continues to inspire and unite the Harlem community. The Greater Harlem Chamber of Commerce will announce funeral information for Lloyd Williams in due course.
As a tribute to the visionary co-founder of Harlem Week, Lloyd Williams, this year's month-long festival takes a special significance in showcasing the home-and-garden landscapes of Harlem, glorifying its unique charm and cultural roots, as it was one of the many aspects Williams tirelessly nurtured throughout his tenure. In doing so, Williams' legacy lives on, subtly shaping not only the lifestyle of Harlem residents but also attracting an influx of tourists, as Harlem Week has successfully transformed into a major city event celebrating the arts, culture, and community.
