“This year’s theme highlights the profound impact that Black Americans have had in the arts. Brooklyn in particular has been home to an array of remarkable black artists whose talents have transcended boundaries and genres — from Lena Horne to Jay-Z, Jean-Michel Basquiat to Spike Lee,” District Attorney Eric Gonzalez said in introducing the artists. “Throughout history, Black artists have used their talents to highlight injustice, address social issues, inspire change and bring communities together.”

The DA also shed light on the collaborative efforts between his office and the Brooklyn Museum, particularly focusing on an innovative alternative to incarceration program. This initiative offers individuals arrested for certain minor offenses an opportunity for transformation through art, rather than prosecution. 

“This is not just about avoiding prosecution; it’s about transformation,” Gonzalez said. “It’s about how art can open doors to new perspectives, encourage self-reflection, and foster a sense of responsibility.”

Leroy Campbell, a self-taught artist whose work resonates with the influences of Jacob Lawrence and Charles Motley, as well as his own Gullah-Geechee heritage, has shared his vision of humanity as a garden, drawing parallels to the “Three Sisters” gardening technique used by Native Americans. His art, rich with historical narratives, seeks to connect the past with the present, urging a collective understanding and appreciation of African American contributions.

His work, described as “riveting” by Essence Magazine’s Editor at Large Mikki Taylor, aims to foster a sense of belonging and understanding, encouraging a nurturing environment where every individual can thrive and contribute positively to society.

The Brooklyn DA’s Black History Month event not only celebrated the profound impact of Black artists on the fabric of American culture but also underscored the importance of integrating art with social justice initiatives to foster a more inclusive and empathetic community.