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Welcome to The New York City Newsletter!

In today’s edition:

• Upcoming New York Knicks home games

• AI art of the week

• A deep dive into the life of Malcolm X

• And more…

Quote of the Week

“Many of us go down a sad path when we let our egos make us suffer.”

—Mo Gawdat

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New York City Trivia

Here is your trivia question of the week. The answer will be shown in next week’s newsletter. Which do you think it is? No cheating!

Which New York City bridge celebrated its 100th anniversary in 1983?

A) The Brooklyn Bridge

B) The Manhattan Bridge

C) The Williamsburg Bridge

D) The George Washington Bridge

Answer to Last Week’s Trivia:

The New York City Subway officially opened in B) 1904.

The Best Stories of the Week

💼Business

Trump Plans Tariffs on Mexico, Canada and China That Could Cripple Trade.(link)

New York City Generates 44 Million Pounds of Garbage a Day. the City Has a Plan to Contain the Mess.(link)

📚Business Resources

Prevent account bans and shadow bans from sites like TikTok and Facebook, instantly. (link)

🏦Finance

Apollo in talks to finance New York Sun-owner's £550m Telegraph bid.(link)

🏒Sports

New York Jets 2025 quarterback options if Aaron Rodgers departs.(link)

Daniel Jones: Minnesota Vikings to sign former New York Giants quarterback following release.(link)

Upcoming Events

Here are some events that are happening in our city this week. There is a good mix between sports, entertainment, conferences, concerts, and more.

Sports

🏀 New York Knicks vs. Charlotte Hornets
Madison Square Garden New York,
Thursday December 05 | 7:30 PM | (more info)

🏀 New York Knicks vs. Detroit Pistons
Madison Square Garden New York,
Saturday December 07 | 7:30 PM | (more info)

Music & Concerts

🎵 Trio Mediaeval
Weill Recital Hall at Carnegie Hall New York,
Friday December 06 | 7:30 PM | (more info)

🎻 YPC: The Future is Orchestra
David Geffen Hall New York,
Saturday December 07 | 2:00 PM | (more info)

Family

🍕 Kids' Pizza Class
Angelina Bakery - UES 1649 3rd Avenue New York,
Thursday, December 5 | 4 - 6:30pm EST | (more info)

Image of the Week

Every week, I have a habit of making some AI art about our city.

This week, I typed in “New York City illuminated entirely by bioluminescent plants and structures.” and this is what I got.

Let me know what ideas you have for this. I really enjoy making these types of photos.

New York City History

1925: The Harlem Renaissance reaches its peak.

By 1925, the Harlem Renaissance had reached its zenith, marking a period of unprecedented African American artistic and cultural expression in Harlem, New York City. This cultural movement encompassed literature, visual arts, music, and theater, showcasing the talents and creativity of African American artists and intellectuals. Central figures of the Renaissance, such as Langston Hughes, Zora Neale Hurston, and Duke Ellington, explored themes of racial identity, social inequality, and the African American experience, contributing to a vibrant and dynamic cultural landscape.

The Harlem Renaissance was characterized by a spirit of defiance against racial segregation and a celebration of African American cultural heritage. It provided a platform for black voices to be heard and appreciated on their own terms, challenging prevailing stereotypes and advocating for social and political change. The movement also fostered a sense of community and solidarity among African American artists and intellectuals, encouraging collaboration and innovation across artistic disciplines.

The legacy of the Harlem Renaissance extends far beyond its peak in the mid-1920s, influencing generations of artists and activists and contributing to the Civil Rights Movement and beyond. It redefined African American identity and cultural expression, leaving an indelible mark on American culture and society. The Harlem Renaissance remains a testament to the power of art and literature to challenge injustice, inspire change, and celebrate the human spirit, embodying a critical moment in the history of racial empowerment and artistic freedom.

Famous New Yorkers In History

Malcolm X (1925–1965): Minister and human rights activist.

Malcolm X (1925–1965)

Early Life and Challenges (1925–1940)

Malcolm Little, who would later become known as Malcolm X, was born on May 19, 1925, in Omaha, Nebraska. His early years were marked by hardship and racial discrimination. The Little family faced frequent harassment from white supremacist groups, which eventually led to the tragic death of Malcolm’s father. These traumatic experiences profoundly shaped Malcolm's worldview. Following his father's death, the family struggled with poverty, and Malcolm's mother was committed to a mental institution, leading to his placement in foster homes. Despite these challenges, Malcolm was a bright student but dropped out of school after a teacher told him that his dream of becoming a lawyer was unrealistic for a black boy.

Life of Crime and Incarceration (1941–1952)

In his late teens and early twenties, Malcolm moved to Boston and then to Harlem, New York City, where he became involved in various criminal activities, including drug dealing, gambling, and burglary. His life of crime eventually led to his arrest and imprisonment in 1946. While incarcerated, Malcolm underwent a significant transformation. He educated himself by reading extensively, especially on history and philosophy, and was introduced to the teachings of the Nation of Islam (NOI). This period of self-reflection and education laid the foundation for his later work as a minister and activist.

Rise in the Nation of Islam (1952–1963)

Upon his release from prison in 1952, Malcolm joined the Nation of Islam, adopting the name Malcolm X to signify the loss of his African heritage. Under the mentorship of Elijah Muhammad, the leader of the NOI, Malcolm quickly rose to prominence as a charismatic and influential minister. He founded new mosques, including the significant Mosque No. 7 in Harlem, and became known for his fiery oratory skills and uncompromising stance on racial issues. Malcolm's message of black empowerment, self-reliance, and the need for African Americans to defend themselves against racial oppression resonated deeply with many people, especially in urban centers like New York City.

Connection to New York City (1954–1965)

New York City was a central stage for Malcolm X's activism and influence. As the minister of Mosque No. 7 in Harlem, he became a prominent figure in the local community, addressing issues of police brutality, housing discrimination, and economic inequality. Malcolm’s speeches and public appearances in New York attracted widespread attention and established him as a leading voice in the Civil Rights Movement. His presence in the city also provided a platform for him to engage with influential leaders and intellectuals, furthering his impact on the national and international stage. New York City served as the backdrop for many of his most important speeches and rallies, making it an integral part of his legacy.

Break with the Nation of Islam and Pilgrimage (1963–1964)

In 1963, Malcolm X's relationship with the Nation of Islam began to deteriorate due to ideological differences and personal conflicts with Elijah Muhammad. In March 1964, Malcolm publicly announced his departure from the NOI and founded the Muslim Mosque, Inc. He embarked on a pilgrimage to Mecca, which was a transformative experience. The pilgrimage broadened his perspective on race and global solidarity, leading him to embrace Sunni Islam and adopt the name El-Hajj Malik El-Shabazz. This spiritual journey also influenced his shift towards advocating for human rights and his increased willingness to collaborate with other civil rights leaders.

Formation of the Organization of Afro-American Unity (1964–1965)

Upon returning to the United States, Malcolm X founded the Organization of Afro-American Unity (OAAU), dedicated to promoting black empowerment and human rights. The OAAU aimed to unite African Americans and people of African descent globally to fight against racial oppression and economic exploitation. Malcolm’s speeches during this period emphasized the need for solidarity among oppressed peoples and the importance of political, economic, and social self-determination. His evolving views on race, politics, and religion reflected a more inclusive approach, recognizing the interconnected struggles of people worldwide.

Assassination and Legacy (1965)

On February 21, 1965, Malcolm X was assassinated while giving a speech at the Audubon Ballroom in New York City. His death was a significant loss to the Civil Rights Movement and left a profound impact on his followers and the broader community. Despite his relatively short public career, Malcolm X's legacy as a fearless advocate for justice, equality, and human rights endures. His autobiography, co-written with Alex Haley, has become a seminal work, inspiring generations to continue the fight for social justice.

Legacy and Influence (1965–Present)

Malcolm X's influence extends far beyond his lifetime. He is remembered as one of the most important and dynamic figures in the struggle for civil rights and black liberation. His speeches, writings, and life story continue to inspire activists and scholars around the world. In New York City, his legacy is honored through various memorials, educational programs, and cultural events. The Audubon Ballroom, where he was assassinated, has been transformed into the Malcolm X and Dr. Betty Shabazz Memorial and Educational Center, serving as a testament to his enduring impact.

Key Achievements:

• Rose to prominence as a minister in the Nation of Islam, advocating for black empowerment and self-reliance.

• Founded the Muslim Mosque, Inc., and the Organization of Afro-American Unity, promoting global solidarity and human rights.

• Influenced generations through his speeches, writings, and the transformative power of his autobiography.

Malcolm X's journey from a troubled youth to a prominent minister and human rights activist is a testament to his resilience, intellect, and unwavering commitment to justice. His connection to New York City played a crucial role in shaping his activism and amplifying his voice on the national and international stage. Malcolm's legacy as a fearless advocate for equality and human dignity continues to inspire and challenge individuals and movements dedicated to social change.

Connect With Me

If you want to connect, reply to this email and let me know what you think.

I would love to hear from you. Don’t be shy.

-Yannick Lyons