The Power of Mount Vernon

The Power of Mount Vernon

This week, the sports and entertainment pages were rumbling with the news that the legendary Sean "P.Diddy" Combs was looking to purchase the Carolina Panthers. Many reporters found it almost-comical that a former rapper wants to buy an NFL franchise. I, as someone who knows Mount Vernon and the talent we produce, was not surprised.

Mount Vernon's renaissance is right now. Combs, Denzel Washington, Sidney Poitier, and Nina Simone are just a few examples of Mount Vernon's children that accelerated creative change. And behind
them stand many more sons and daughters who are crafting culture and making the world notice.

It's a point of pride to any Mount Vernon-ite when you ask us about what artistic gifts we have given to the world, that we have a lot to say in response. Be it music or sculpture, painting or freestyle, the voice from our four-square miles is one that demands to be heard.

As Mayor, I believe it's time to stop dreaming about what could be and start bringing what "could be" to reality. The artistic forms that the 21st century holds are vibrant and will only enhance Mount Vernon's reputation and economy.

For example, sculptures are no longer quiet pieces in the corner of a museum; they are public statements and an investment in our quality of life. They are interactive elements that transform public parks into exciting community spaces where folks can gather. Public art gardens are being developed in New York City, Seattle, and other cities across the country. As proud Mount Vernon-ites, we need to
showcase what we can do.

Recently, I had the privilege of having brunch with ArtNoir, a group of artists and culture crafters who are leading the artistic revolution in New York City. These "imagineers" are redefining art,
diversity, and changing the conversation by speaking their truth. In short, they are representing Mount Vernon values and making Mount Vernon moves. These artists are from all around the world and are
focused on Harlem, yet, they want to come to Mount Vernon because they desire to become part of our historic vibes, our authentic culture, and our positive energy that will infuse and accelerate their creative
contributions to the world.

This fearless Mount Vernon attitude is what led Denzel Washington to dare to pursue his dreams and become the first African-American to win best actor at the Academy Awards since 1963. It is that strong spirit that emboldened Nina Simone to break barriers and become the first black classically-trained pianist to perform. And it's this Mount Vernon mettle that molded Sean Combs and positions him to become the first African-American majority owner of a major NFL franchise. And he should know that his hometown will support his latestbid to do another big thing.

This is the power of Mount Vernon and we must harness it to flow freely again - in revitalized parks; in athletic and artistic programs; in creating opportunities for careers and higher education. In
the New Year, I look forward to inspiring our children and filling our community with awe and wonder through exciting art, music, and sports projects to bring pride back to our beautiful city... simply by
providing our leaders of culture and capital a platform to shine again.

Originally Published in the Westchester County Press - December 19, 2017