Honoring Legacy.
Celebrating Excellence.
Uplifting Our Culture.
A landmark gathering of civic leaders, educators, and community changemakers in the heart of Harlem.
Hon. Charlie
Rangel
Civil Rights Leader · 1930–2023
"I think that, as Americans, we should never forget that when we tamper with freedom of speech, it is a very sensitive issue that affects all of our constitutional rights and privileges."
For over four decades, Charlie Rangel was Harlem's most steadfast voice in Washington — championing civil rights, economic opportunity, and the dignity of every person in our community. This year, we gather in his name.
The 2026 Charlie Rangel Awardees will be announced at the Breakfast — September 20, 2026.
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About the Breakfast
Established in 2001 and co-founded by Hon. Keith L. T. Wright, the African American Day Parade Breakfast is a longstanding Harlem tradition that brings together change-makers, culture-shapers, educators, elected officials, and community leaders for a morning of recognition, connection, and purpose.
Originally created as a community-driven fundraiser to support Harlem's championship Little League team, the Breakfast has evolved into a signature civic convening honoring individuals and institutions whose work uplifts our community through education, advocacy, leadership, and legacy-building.
Under the leadership of President Deneane Brown-Blackmon, and with the continued stewardship of the African American Day Parade Breakfast Committee, this gathering remains part of the vital ecosystem surrounding the African American Day Parade — creating space for leaders from across New York City and New York State to come together before the broader celebration, grounding the day in service, legacy, and shared responsibility.
Guided by the principle "We Lift As We Climb," the Breakfast honors both the trailblazers who paved the way and the next generation of leaders rising in their footsteps.
The Committee
Scholarship Opportunities
Nurturing the next generation of Black leaders through education and opportunity.
The Legacy Scholarship Program
The African American Day Parade Breakfast Committee is proud to offer scholarship opportunities to deserving students who exemplify academic excellence, community commitment, and leadership potential. When we invest in our youth, we invest in the future of our community.
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To Our Sponsors — Thank You.
None of this would be possible without you. Your generosity is what allows us to open doors for our students, honor those who have given so much to this community, and keep the spirit of the African American Day Parade alive and celebrated in Harlem.
When you sponsor this Breakfast, you are directly funding college scholarships for deserving young people in our community. You are helping us bring together the leaders, elected officials, educators, and advocates who make our community stronger. And you are standing alongside us as we affirm, every single September, that the African American Day Parade is a declaration. A celebration of who we are, where we come from, and everything we will continue to build together.
Reach out directly and let's talk about how your support can make a lasting difference in our community.
Become a SponsorCollege Scholarships
Your support puts our students in classrooms and sets them on a path toward the futures they deserve.
Honoring Our Leaders
You make it possible to gather Harlem's finest minds and recognize the people who give so much to our community.
Celebrating Who We Are
The African American Day Parade is more than a tradition — it is a declaration. Your sponsorship keeps that declaration loud and proud.
We are grateful to every organization who has stood with us.
Get In Touch
For inquiries about attendance, sponsorship, or scholarships, reach us directly.