Harlem Shabazz Market

There is an interesting and special place in Harlem. This place is called the Harlem Shabazz Market. This market is run mostly by Senegalese merchants. Sister Raheema is the director of the Harlem Shabazz Market . She does not want people to get the wrong idea of the market so she decided to make it clear that, "It is not only an African market, but a market for the community."

Harlem Shabazz Market is temporarily located between 115th - 116th St. and Fifth Avenue. The market has a four year contract but unfortunately, the city is going to attract other, high profile retailers, like Footlocker. This market used to be located at 116th St. and Lenox Avenue. But due to the expansion of the market, some people were relocated to the new address stated above. Harlem Shabazz Market has been in this new location for approximately two months now. Not many people are aware of this expansion. Therefore, the business as been on an up and down basis but will eventually get back on track soon says a merchant.

This market gets its named from the name Masjid, after Malcolm X. The Harlem Shabazz Market has contributed to the community by making it affordable for the people to buy different goods at a great wholesale price.

woodwork The Harlem Shabazz Market on Fifth Avenue is under four big tents in a big lot. Under each tent would be between 10-12 vendors selling different things. Such as: necklaces, bracelets, hats, hats, watches, artifacts from Senegal, African masks and fabrics from the motherland. And a variety of designer clothing. In addition, the individual vendors, after acquiring enough money, moves up and gets their own stores.

The vendors have their own individually booths. Some of the vendors make their own jewelry and clothing. No one steals from them or take their merchandise because they are very secure. Therefore, the Africans feels at home. They listen to music known as Zook to entertain themselves through the hours.

The Harlem Shabazz Market is open between 10am and 7pm everyday. It is open to everyone. Blacks, Whites, Dominicans, Puerto-Ricans, Tourists, Etc.

It is a well known organization that existed for many years because like Sister Raheema said, " If we all work together, that's when it is a success. No one person or one organization can be successful."

		Harlem Shabazz Market, Art from the Diaspora
		story by Edward Diego - photos by Jamal Severin

Harlem Shabazz Market, Art from the Diaspora