This week, we asked readers their thoughts on the shorter annual Bronx Week Parade and its move from Mosholu Parkway to Grand Concourse between 167^th Street and 158^th Street.

 

“Why did they move it? I actually attended the parade a couple of years ago when I was a part of Peace December, where peaceful artists came together, and I attended the festival. I think it’s better now that they moved it by the courthouse. I think it has to do with the protection there because things can happen with all these young kids nowadays and people, in general, doing stupid stuff, so it would be a little better by the courthouse. Everything is different now.”

Jamaal “Rowstacks” Kennedy,

Soundview

“I think it sucks growing up and being born and raised on this side of The Bronx, and we look forward to it every year as kids, and now I take my kids to it. Obviously during COVID we didn’t, but we were talking about looking forward to it again this year, and now not doing it, it kind of sucks. No, we didn’t even know. There was no communication sent out. We didn’t hear anything about it. The festival was awesome. They’re all Black and Hispanic-owned businesses and shops and people come together. Kids go crazy and have tons of fun, families get out. It’s really disappointing that we can’t do it this year, but if it can return next year, and every year after that, it was a great tradition. They may make things up but it’s all about money.”

Steven Hernandez,

Norwood

“I feel like for all the people in the community that live over here who should wake up and see something beautiful and traveling to (East) 161st Street is sometimes hard for people. I think rotating the event is fair if we’re all about fairness. A lot of people in the community can’t afford to travel, so to see a parade or anything that’s bright is truly amazing, especially in this time of need for the youth whose parents aren’t taking them anywhere.”

Trina Rose Lauriano,

Bedford Park

 

“We are actually just happy it is still being held and The Bronx gets to be celebrated. It’s great to see that the Bronx borough president, who is doing an amazing job, has kept the Bronx Week Parade alive. I’m excited to not only see the parade itself, but the community coming together to celebrate and keeping this tradition going, that’s what makes The Bronx strong. I was surprised it was moved, but how awesome would it be if the parade traveled through the Bronx each year, so we really get to experience all of the greatness that The Bronx has to offer.”

Erika Newsome,

Throggs Neck

“The change in the parade route caught me by surprise. I guess it’s because of the new bike lanes the city put in on Mosholu Parkway. The good thing about the Grand Concourse is there are lots of bodegas so if someone needs water to hydrate and cool off, they’re close by. The bad thing about the Grand Concourse is there is very little shade.”

Joseph Ronda,

Throggs Neck

 

Editor’s Note: Check out our recent coverage of Bronx Week here and our reporting on the Bronx Week parade move here.