This past Saturday, I had the honor of being one of the photographers asked to document the Bronx Narratives’ "A Very Bronx Summer" block party. I feel as though this moment was the culmination of the years I've poured into photography. My mission hadn't been as clear as it was on that day. Now I'll never forget. I was meant to be there, and the photos further prove that.

Beautiful people from all over the diaspora showed out. We were shining together as proud Uptown natives. The Puerto Rican BBQ tent, Jamaican food truck, and the Gun Hill Brewery were bustling with passionate home cooks and hungry residents. Providing food straight off the grill and drinks fresh from the tap to the community. Everything we needed was present along that section of Laconia Ave.

The DJs and musical acts were the thread that held everything together. If you guessed "Before I Let Go" by Frankie Beverly was in the rotation, you'd be correct. Two steps were strong even in the 90 degree weather. The jams were jamming the way they needed to. Also, hearing hip-hop in the Bronx is a spiritual experience. No other way to describe it. On this night, there was also true and original reggae played by some very talented singers and songwriters.

This was a historic exhibition of community, togetherness, and Uptown as a whole. I've never been more proud to be from here. This day will be cemented in the community thanks to the photos taken by every photographer who came through. We’ll live forever.

If I may, I strongly suggest you take that trip Uptown (Harlem, The Heights, or The X) if the opportunity presents itself. Even if it doesn't, make the time. It's beautiful here...

“That's it. That's the post.”