Block Parties Spread Love The Brooklyn Way

by Pojanee Fleury
I had the pleasure of contributing to Our Time Press’ summer long series covering Brooklyn’s block parties. Not only did I have a great time – as the joy in the air was absolutely contagious – but I learned something very important, Brooklyn is not the one sided picture painted by the news or pop culture. I truly began to understand what Biggie meant in his infamous line, “Spread love, that’s the Brooklyn way.”

Although certain areas of Brooklyn are associated with crime and violence, I witnessed residents love and care for their block. They were focused on building community, not just living on a street in Brooklyn. They viewed the whole block as a space they could have an effect on not just for themselves but for the most important people on the block- the children.

All block associations’ representatives spoke to me about how important it was for the children to play freely on their blocks. In a busy city, you are taught from a young age to beware of the street. Having a day where children don’t have to worry about that, connects young people to a safe environment on their block creating a sense of security that fosters community and belonging. When children grow up in thoughtfully created safe spaces, they can thrive socially and emotionally, supported by adults in their family and along their street who are committed to making it possible.

Covering these neighborhood celebrations has been an eye-opening journey into the heart of what makes Brooklyn special. From the most humble gatherings to elaborate events with multiple bouncy castles and professional sound systems, each block party shared one thing in common: the commitment to building positive community bonds. A new picture of Brooklyn emerges in this landscape, one that is full of hope and togetherness.

Jane Wright, the co-president of the 400 Bainbridge Block Association, explained that when people rent from her, she automatically enrolls them in the block association. She said, “they should be residents of the block, part of the community, not just renters.” I had never thought of this, I am guilty of living on blocks in the city; coming and going without even knowing a single person’s name. Wright is an incredible community organizer, shifting the concept of living on a block to residing in a neighborhood.

The dedication of block association members is truly remarkable. Volunteering for months to secure permits, coordinate with local businesses, and organize everything from waste disposal to entertainment. They fundraise for supplies and work together to make the best of the resources they have. Their commitment stands on the shoulders of community leaders like Herbert Von King, the longtime activist and educator who understood that strong neighborhoods are built one relationship at a time. A park in the heart of Bed-Stuy bears his name to honor his legacy. The park has become a central gathering place, hosting everything from family picnics to community festivals. It serves as a reminder of Von King’s vision, where shared spaces foster connection and collaboration.

In a city that can feel overwhelming and impersonal, Brooklyn’s block parties remind us that community can be built one block at a time. I am so grateful that Our Time Press recognized these invaluable community institutions, giving them the spotlight they deserve. While we could not cover all of them, they all deserve to be commended. It is this collective effort that demonstrates the true spirit of Brooklyn—one built on resilience, care, and a shared commitment to uplifting one another.

As Putnam Howard Garden Block Association President, Cammy, said, “this is what reduces crime in the neighborhoods. Knowing each other, walking the block and looking out for each other. It makes a difference.”

Rismia Johnson, president of the First Quincy Street Block Association said the importance of bringing everyone together is, “the Brooklyn way to spread love.”
So the next time you hear music drifting from a blocked-off street in Brooklyn, take a moment to appreciate what’s really happening. You’re witnessing community in action, tradition being upheld, and Brooklyn love in practice.

• photos by Pojanee Fleury