FGC in the Press: Honoring Black Legacy, Leadership & Community at Our 2025 Black History Month Awards
- eeaton116
- 4 days ago
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-As featured in Our Time Press, Vol. 29 No. 15 (April 10–16, 2025)
Fort Greene Council was proud to be featured in Our Time Press for our 2025 Black History Month Awards celebration, where our very own Board Chairman, Gregory T. Pinn, M.S., delivered a powerful and heartfelt address that captured the soul of Brooklyn’s Black legacy—and the living impact our community continues to make every day.
In his speech, Chairman Pinn reminded us that Black history is not just a reflection of the past—it’s a vibrant force that shapes our present and future. He spotlighted Brooklyn as a historic epicenter of Black excellence, from the early establishment of Weeksville in 1838 to the groundbreaking activism and achievements of Brooklynites like Maritcha Lyons, Dr. Susan Smith McKinney-Steward, Jackie Robinson, Shirley Chisholm, and James Haughton Jr.
He honored cultural icons such as The Notorious B.I.G. and JAY-Z, whose music gave voice to the Black Brooklyn experience, and acknowledged Fort Greene as a historic cultural hub—home to legends like Richard Wright and Spike Lee.
Chairman Pinn paid special tribute to Fort Greene Council, Inc., founded by his father, Dr. Sam Pinn, Pat Dugal, and Ed Carter, recognizing the organization’s decades-long commitment to uplifting Black older adults, youth, and families through vital services, education, and cultural programming.
“Their work has ensured that Fort Greene remains a place of empowerment,” he said, “where Black history isn’t just preserved—it’s lived.”
The article also highlights how Black history in Brooklyn is alive and thriving—from the entrepreneurs of Fulton Street and Flatbush Avenue to the educators in Brownsville and the activists in Crown Heights. Community-based organizations, including Fort Greene Council, continue to serve as the heart and soul of Brooklyn’s strength.
As Chairman Pinn concluded:
“Brooklyn’s story is Black history. It is a story of struggle and success, of community and culture, of strength and spirit… So today, let’s celebrate—but let’s also commit ourselves to continuing this legacy.”
We thank Our Time Press for spotlighting our work and for continuing to amplify the stories that matter. To read more about the Black History Month Honors and Chairman Pinn’s full remarks, stay tuned for the online release of the article.
Let’s continue to carry forward this powerful legacy—by celebrating our elders, supporting our youth, and building a more just and vibrant future for all.
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