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Bronx Week back on after cancellation, Borough President Vanessa Gibson announces – Bronx Times

by Rachel Morgan News Editor
written by Rachel Morgan News Editor

Bronx Week, a week-long celebration of Bronx businesses, culture, and community, will proceed this year after a brief pause. The announcement came from Bronx Borough President Vanessa Gibson, following an initial decision on March 4 to suspend the event due to city budget concerns.

Resumption of a Bronx Tradition

Gibson publicly announced the resumption of Bronx Week at the finish of Bronx Day in Albany, where she received support from state officials, business leaders, and nonprofit representatives. Her office stated that overwhelming support from community leaders, partners, and stakeholders contributed to the relaunch of the tradition.

Did You Know? Bronx Week is typically held in May and is organized by the Bronx Borough President’s Office in partnership with the Bronx Tourism Council and the Bronx Economic Development Corporation.

Gibson described the initial decision to pause Bronx Week as “difficult” and “not made lightly.” She emphasized the borough’s resilience and community spirit, stating, “Time and time again, Bronxites rise to the moment, supporting one another, and we are excited to celebrate together once again.”

Community Response

Council member Althea Stevens expressed gratitude for Gibson’s leadership in securing support for the event’s return. Council member Justin Sanchez had previously called on Bronx partners to help reinstate Bronx Week, and welcomed the news, stating that the community’s enthusiasm will create this year’s celebration the best yet.

Expert Insight: The reversal of the initial cancellation demonstrates the significant value placed on Bronx Week by community stakeholders. The event’s return, secured through collaborative effort, underscores the importance of local traditions and their role in fostering borough pride.

Details regarding the specific dates and events of the renewed Bronx Week are still being finalized, according to the borough president’s office.

Frequently Asked Questions

When was the decision made to resume Bronx Week?

The decision to resume Bronx Week was announced by Bronx Borough President Vanessa Gibson at the end of Bronx Day in Albany.

Why was Bronx Week initially paused?

Bronx Week was initially paused in response to the city’s budget deficit and broader fiscal issues.

Who organizes Bronx Week?

Bronx Week is organized through the Bronx Borough President’s Office in partnership with the Bronx Tourism Council and the Bronx Economic Development Corporation.

As the Bronx prepares to celebrate its community and culture, what role do you believe local traditions play in strengthening borough identity?

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Vanessa Gibson sworn in for second term as Bronx Borough President at Lehman Center for the Performing Arts – Bronx Times

by Rachel Morgan News Editor
written by Rachel Morgan News Editor

Hundreds gathered at the Lehman Center for the Performing Arts as Vanessa Gibson was inaugurated for a second term as Bronx Borough President. The evening’s events included performances by the Renaissance Youth Center and Celia Cruz High School of Music.

A Mandate for Change

Gibson secured a resounding victory in the November 2025 election, winning 83% of the vote. Her second term begins with a stated focus on elevating the Bronx, encapsulated in her campaign blueprint: “The Bronx Leads.” According to Gibson, this is both “an affirmation and… a call to action” aimed at recognizing the borough’s strengths after years of being overlooked.

Did You Know? Vanessa Gibson won her second term with 83% of the vote in November 2025.

Priorities for 2026

Gibson outlined a strategic plan to address longstanding inequalities impacting public schools and educational facilities. Her administration will build on previous accomplishments in areas like education, healthcare, small businesses, housing, and culture. Key initiatives for 2026 include bolstering educational opportunities and addressing health disparities.

For higher education, Gibson’s office will continue its partnership with the Bronx Higher Education Task Force, connecting students with career readiness programs. A young adult employment fair, targeting residents aged 16-24, is planned to connect individuals with long-term employment opportunities. “A stable job… can transform a person’s life,” Gibson stated.

A unique addition to the borough’s educational landscape will be the opening of the Bronx School of Hip Hop in September 2026 – the first school of its kind. The administration also plans to support the revitalization of Greater Morris Park, which recently received a $20 million grant from Governor Kathy Hochul’s Downtown Revitalization Initiative.

Expert Insight: Borough President Gibson’s emphasis on both economic opportunity and cultural institutions like the Bronx School of Hip Hop suggests a strategy to leverage the borough’s unique assets for broader revitalization. This approach could be key to attracting investment and fostering a sense of local pride.

Addressing Health and Homeownership

Healthcare is also a central focus, with the launch of a Bronx Asthma and Respiratory Health Equity initiative. This will include advocacy for a new asthma center focused on prevention, care coordination, research, and community education, addressing environmental factors contributing to the illness. Gibson also highlighted a commitment to expanding access to maternal healthcare, supported by a $5 million capital investment for a Bronx-based birthing center.

Recognizing the importance of financial stability, Gibson’s administration will prioritize making homeownership more accessible to Bronx families. An information session will be held on March 4th at Bronx Borough Hall, connecting residents with resources and experts.

Attendees at the inauguration expressed optimism about Gibson’s vision. Fordham University student Lucas Hjertberg noted the importance of recognizing the Bronx’s cultural contributions, while fellow student Naomi Fry celebrated Gibson’s success as a Black woman in leadership. Marin Zahran, whose family works in Gibson’s office, emphasized the Borough President’s dedication to the borough’s progress.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the “Bronx Leads” initiative?

“Bronx Leads” is Borough President Gibson’s blueprint for her second term, described as both an affirmation of the borough’s strengths and a call to action focused on its future.

What new educational opportunities are planned?

The Bronx School of Hip Hop will open in September 2026, and the administration will continue to work with the Bronx Higher Education Task Force to connect students with career programs. A young adult employment fair is also planned.

What is being done to address healthcare disparities?

A Bronx Asthma and Respiratory Health Equity initiative will be launched, advocating for a new asthma center and addressing environmental factors. A $5 million investment will support a new Bronx-based birthing center.

What role do you believe community engagement will play in the success of these initiatives?

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