New York has a rich history of Black culture and activism that has played a significant role in shaping the city's identity. One of the most famous periods in Black history in New York is the Harlem Renaissance of the 1920s and 1930s. During this time, Harlem became a center of African American culture, with iconic figures like Langston Hughes, Zora Neale Hurston, and Duke Ellington making significant strides in the fields of literature, music, and art.

New York City was also a key location in the civil rights movement, with activists such as Malcolm X, Shirley Chisholm, and Bayard Rustin all working towards racial equality and justice. The city was the site of many important demonstrations and events, including the Harlem Riot of 1964 and the March on Washington for Jobs and Freedom in 1963.

In recent years, New York has continued to be a hub for Black activism, with movements such as Black Lives Matter gaining momentum in the city. Organizations like the NAACP, the National Urban League, and the Black Panthers have all had a presence in New York, advocating for the rights and equality of Black Americans.

Overall, New York has a long and storied history of Black culture, activism, and community that continues to shape the city to this day.