By Edwin Freeman for Black Star News
On a crisp December afternoon, I had the privilege of accompanying Latoya LeGrand, Queens District 28 City Council Candidate for the 2025 election and founder of a prominent Queens-based nonprofit Projects II Projects, to the 10th Annual Christmas Parade on Rockaway Boulevard in Southeast Queens, New York.
The parade, meticulously organized by Hope NYC, a local church known for its community engagement, was a vibrant celebration of holiday cheer and neighborhood unity. As we walked along the parade route, LeGrand’s commitment to community service was evident in her warm interactions with local residents and parade participants.
As founders of respective Queens-based nonprofits, we shared a mutual understanding of the importance of community involvement. My own organization, The Freeman Foundation for the Arts, has long believed in the power of bringing people together, and this parade embodied that spirit perfectly.
Our appearance at the parade also served as a preview of our upcoming collaborative effort – a toy drive scheduled for December 21, 2024. This event, hosted by Live Long Juice Bar, P.S. 40 Queens, and Eagle Academy, promises to bring joy to children across the community during the holiday season. We invite the community to contribute by bringing new, unwrapped toys to the Live Long Juice Bar before December 20th.
LeGrand, who is gaining momentum in her City Council campaign, used the opportunity to connect with constituents, listening to their concerns and sharing her vision for District 28. Her grassroots approach was warmly received by parade attendees.
The day was a testament to the power of community, celebration, and shared hope during the holiday season.
