Harlem and Bronzeville. Two neighborhoods separated by more than 700 miles. Despite the space between them, there’s plenty that unites these epicenters of Black culture — with reputations built over more than a century.

There’s a historic connection between Harlem in New York City and Bronzeville here in Brew City. It’s something Radio Milwaukee’s digital-first platform HYFIN will put center stage at its third annual Anti-Gala, which this year pays homage to the Harlem Renaissance. 

In this episode of Uniquely Milwaukee, host Kim Shine talks with HYFIN program director Element Everest-Blanks about the upcoming gala but also takes a step back into history. In part one, you’ll hear from three Milwaukee notables about how the city’s Black community spurred its own renaissance starting in the 1920s up to a thriving Bronzeville in the 1950s.

Guests:
- Raynetta "Ray" Hill, executive director, Historic King Drive BID (guest interviewer)
- Clayborn Benson, founder of the Wisconsin Black Historical Society and Museum
- Reuben Harpole, Milwaukee’s “Second Mayor” 

Read the full article, see pictures from the past, and recommended books on Black Milwaukee by visiting radiomilwaukee.org/ourstories 

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Episode host: Kim Shine

Uniquely Milwaukee is sponsored by the Milwaukee Public Library and supported by our Radio Milwaukee members.