“Brooklyn is a diversity of people from all nations. Although we may have different customs and culture, we share similar concerns relative to our community and prosperity. We all want peace, respect, and an opportunity to succeed which is what Unity Walk exudes while we learn more about each other as we simultaneously home in on our common interests.” -- Reverend Terry Lee

Held annually in East Flatbush, Brooklyn in New York, Unity Walk is a one-day peaceful parade that sets the foundation for conversations and actions that forge peace and respect between law enforcement representatives and community residents, helping both parties to rebuild trust and re-establish harmony. The event also features a free fun-filled day of entertainment and activities for the entire family focused on strengthening and empowering our communities, highlighting Brooklyn’s diversity, and providing resources that address community issues and concerns.

Reverend Terry M. Lee, now a recognized and trusted leader, was a young pastor when he first launched Unity Walk. After the traumatic arrest and assault of Haitian immigrant Abner Louima by the police in 1997 triggered violent outbreaks and protests, Reverend Lee sought a path to healing the tensions, and in 1998, created Unity Walk as the portal to bring everyone together and to facilitate conversation and a better relationship between the community and the police.

Under the auspices of Byways & Hedges Youth for Christ Ministry, the event flourished from thirteen people initially to thousands annually and was eventually transferred to the management of CCN so it could be better funded. Since then, Unity Walk has helped to cultivate and build a more positive relationship with the NYPD—empowering community members while helping the police force understand the needs and the culture of the community they serve.

Unity Walk has brought thousands of Brooklyn residents and visitors together to revel in the beauty of this “Great Borough.” The event attracts clergy, artists, organizers, residents, elected officials, NYPD, FDNY, the Armed Forces, healthcare providers, educators, local business owners, and community leaders. Past participants include NYC Mayor Bill de Blasio, former NYC Mayor Rudolph Giuliani, former NYC Mayor Michael Bloomberg, Brooklyn Borough President Eric Adams, Congresswoman Yvette Clarke, State Senator Kevin Parker, State Senator Jesse Hamilton, Brooklyn District Attorney Charles Hynes, Assemblywoman Diana Richardson, Assemblywoman Latrice Walker, Assemblywoman Rodneyse Bichotte, Assemblyman Nick Perry, Public Advocate Letitia James, Council member Laurie Cumbo, former Assemblywoman Rhoda Jacobs, several Caricom leaders and diplomats, trumpeter David Longoria, gospel singers Hopeton Lewis, Cora Williamson, Michael Reid, Wayne Johnson, and many others.

Past sponsors for Unity Walk include HealthFirst, Humana, MetroPlus Health Plan, WellCare Health Plans, Affinity Health Plan, Kings County Hospital, Brookdale Hospital, Maimonides Medical Center, USCIS, NYPD, Dennis Shipping, LaParkan Shipping, Rainbow Car Service, Chef's Choice Supermarket, C&J Restaurants, Silver Krust Restaurant & Bakery, FootPrints Restaurant, Tropical Paradise, Caribbean Life Newspaper, Real Life Times Media, WhatzUp New York TV, Behind Focus TV Network, Rapid Furniture, and many others.

Unity Walk & Community Festival occurs annually and is free to attend.

Contact us if you would like to be an event partner.