Mayor Adams, Lt. Gov. Antonio Delgado and others gather for annual Black History Town Hall on Staten Island

STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. — Soul-stirring church melodies and dynamic speakers filled First Central Baptist Church in Stapleton Saturday afternoon, as over 150 local leaders and residents gathered for the 19th annual Staten Island Black History Town Hall meeting.

The event, bursting at capacity reminiscent of pre-pandemic times, celebrated Black excellence and paid homage to community members who play pivotal roles in grassroots efforts and dedicate their time to serving the people. Discourse revolved around the importance of uplifting each other, advocating for diverse leadership representation, and preserving Black history to propel the community forward.

This year’s theme focused on “developing lasting avenues of socioeconomic strength.”

“It’s important that we strengthen the Black and brown communities. And we always give awards to the unsung heroes — those who are doing the grunt work in the community,” Antoinnette Donegan, member of the Town Hall committee and community organizer with the Central Family Life Center in Stapleton, said. “The people we are awarding, they love the community and give tirelessly for the community.”

She went on to explain that as someone born during the civil rights movement, she wants the younger generation to appreciate the efforts made by their elders. Understanding the significance of voting, which their ancestors fought for, is essential, she emphasized. Additionally, she said she hopes they will take pride in their identity and value their community.

“Black history for me is all year long,” Donegan said.

Dr. Demetrius Carolina, senior pastor at First Central Baptist Church and executive director of the Central Family Life Center, hosted the event and introduced New York City Mayor Eric Adams, who spoke to the crowd.

“The Black church…