Lloyd A. Williams, the President and CEO of The Greater Harlem Chamber of Commerce, has died. He was 80 years old.
His family confirmed to the Amsterdam News that Williams died Tuesday. His cause of death has been attributed to cancer, something that he was fighting in secret while remaining committed to serving his friends and neighbors.
Williams was a respected member of the Harlem community, where he spent his entire life. He dedicated his life to improving access to healthcare options and artistic offerings in the area. For five decades, he championed economic equality and cultural diversity.
He spoke up before it was popular. He did not wait for permission to care for his people.
Williams embodied The Greater Harlem Chamber of Commerce motto that “The business of business is PEOPLE!”
His voice rose in defense of Harlem’s identity as a haven for Black families and artists at a time when others sought to frame it as a blank slate for real estate interests. His actions represented a deep devotion to the health and happiness of his fellow Harlemites. Some referred to him as a cultural architect.
Williams served as the Vice-Chairman of Harlem Arts Alliance (HAA), in addition to his work with The Greater Harlem Chamber of Commerce. The organization “plays an essential role in the lives of emerging and established artists.” It connects them to resources, provides them with exposure, and creates connections that propel their careers. He also co-founded the National Black Sports & Entertainment Hall of Fame.
The well-being of all Black people was important to Williams. He was a member of the NAACP and the National Action Network, supporting their efforts faithfully.
The late Congressman Charles Rangel celebrated Williams’ work. “Truly a pioneer in both the fields of culture and commerce, he has managed to harmoniously unite the two, providing opportunities for Harlem residents to thrive,” said Rangel. “The Harlem community, indeed all of New York City, owes a debt of gratitude to Lloyd Williams.”
Winston Majette, Executive Director of The Greater Harlem Chamber of Commerce issued a statement on Williams’ passing. “It is with profound sadness that The Greater Harlem Chamber of Commerce and the family of Lloyd Williams, President and CEO of The Greater Harlem Chamber of Commerce and Co-Founder of HARLEM WEEK, passed away peacefully overnight, surrounded by loved ones, following a private and courageous battle with cancer,” she said.
Williams co-founded the upcoming HARLEM WEEK, which was initially known as HARLEM DAY. He helped take it from a one-day festival to a cultural juggernaut with a positive impact on the local economy and civic engagement.
Majette confirmed that the organization will continue hosting the event honoring Williams by continuing his work.
“While we mourn his loss, HARLEM WEEK will continue as planned. Our theme this year is ‘Celebrate Our Magic,’ which is fitting because Lloyd always celebrated the magic of his beloved community,” she continued.
Former New York City Mayor Bill de Blasio presented Williams with a proclamation for HARLEM WEEK in 2017.
Black Health Matters Founder and CEO Roslyn Young-Daniels expressed her feelings surrounding Williams’ passing. “We join the Harlem community and beyond in mourning the passing of Lloyd Williams, a visionary leader, tireless advocate, and co-founder of Harlem Week and the Greater Harlem Chamber of Commerce. Mr. Williams was a true statesman whose life’s work gave voice and visibility to a community too often overlooked and under-resourced,” she said. “His unwavering commitment to uplifting Harlem’s cultural, economic, and health landscape transformed the lives of countless individuals. Under his leadership, Harlem Week became more than a celebration — it became a movement. A space where families could gather for entertainment, education, and empowerment — enriching the mind, body, and soul.”
Black Health Matters has partnered with HARLEM WEEK to create hybrid events designed to educate attendees about vital health issues. “Black Health Matters is proud to have been welcomed into the Greater Harlem Chamber of Commerce by Mr. Williams, and to have participated in Harlem Week — a testament to his inclusive spirit and dedication to health equity,” continued Young-Daniels. “Lloyd Williams’ legacy will endure in every corner of Harlem and in every life touched by his vision. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered.”
Our thoughts and prayers are with the loved ones of Williams at this time.
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