In West Harlem, a gathering marked the beginning of a month-long “Art Stroll” celebrating the neighborhood’s rich culture and artistic heritage. This program, which began two decades ago, has become a true community treasure. In a place historically marked by poverty and violence, where social marginalization is a constant challenge, one woman dared to dream of using the arts as a vehicle for positive social change. Dorothy Maynor, a celebrated opera singer, believed that “world-class training in the arts stimulates the child, strengthens the family, and gives pride of ownership to the community.” Her legacy reminds us of the transformative power of the arts in creating a sense of pride and belonging in our communities.

That night, three renowned professionals in the arts were honored, all of whom reside in Harlem. Their words were similar: “Make your world smaller.” Award-winning novelist Angie Cruz spoke of growing up with a single mother and still finding time, late at night, to paint over graffiti in the lobby or clean up trash around the apartment complex. She made a sacrifice to take pride in the place where she lived, despite the circumstances. This tenacity of pride, going no further than your block, is what we can take from our community.

In a city of seemingly infinite possibilities, it can be overwhelming to decide where to focus our attention. However, when we look at what is right in front of us, we can find a sense of pride and purpose. Suddenly, the vastness of possibilities and decision anxiety fade away, replaced by a sense of ownership. Small actions, like picking up a can in the street, sweeping the lobby, or adding flowers to a dining room table, can make a big difference. By taking pride in ourselves and our surroundings, we create space, home, career, and a sense of belonging for others.

Pride becomes our primary tool in creating space, creating home, creating career, and creating a sense of belonging. In a sea of infinite possibilities, pride is a beacon that can help us navigate and find our way. The arts provide a space for pride to expand, explore, shine, and cultivate. When we are around people who embody pride, we feel a sense of expanding, welcoming space. This sense of pride can take many forms, whether it’s the assuredness of a circus performer like Apollo, who exudes confidence and freedom, or the pride we feel in ourselves and our communities when we come together to celebrate our culture and creativity.

Take pride in yourself. Take pride in your community. Take ownership of yourself and your surroundings. When we do, others will follow. Our communities will grow stronger, our children will be gifted with space to play, our artists will have space to express themselves, and our ideas will have fertile ground to blossom. Our world will become smaller, but our inner world will continue to expand, fueled by the beacon of pride that encourages us to shine.

Make your world smaller.