City Council:
AN ORDINANCE AUTHORIZING THE TEMPORARY
CLOSURE OF HAWTHORNE TERRACE BETWEEN
LENOX AVENUE AND EUCLID AVENUE FOR THE HOSTING OF THE
ANNUAL WAKANDA CELEBRATION 2026 EVENT
Whereas, by letter dated July 15, 2026, the Rose Luangisa of Wakanda Celebration Inc. has requested authorization to host the "Wakanda Celebration 2026" on Saturday, September 12, 2026, from 12:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., at 374 Hawthorne Terrace between Lenox Avenue and Euclid Avenue in the City of Mount Vernon ("the City"), as described in the event application submitted by the organizers; and
Whereas, the requested temporary street closure is necessary to provide a safe environment for attendees and event activities; and
Whereas, the event organizers have agreed to indemnify and hold harmless the City, its officers, employees, and agents from any liability, damage, or loss arising from the event; and
Whereas, the Department of Public Works has no objection to the proposed event and will provide necessary traffic and safety measures, including signage and barricades; will place "No Parking" signs and barricades 72 hours in advance to accommodate the street closure at 366 Hawthorne Terrace (corner of Lenox and Hawthorne Terrace); and
Whereas, the event is intended as a free, family-friendly featuring music, dance, art, and food to honor African heritage and community unity; and
Whereas, the applicant, Rose Luangisa, has reached out to the area residents and obtained their support, and the street closure will not impact essential vehicular traffic; Now, Therefore, Be It Resolved That
The City of Mount Vernon, in City Council convened, does hereby ordain, and enact:
Section 1. Authorization to Host Event. Permission is hereby granted to Rose Luangisa and event organizers to hold the 2026 Wakanda Celebration on Saturday, September 12, 2026 from 12:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at the designated locations: 374, 375, and 366 Hawthorne Terrace, and ...
Click here for full text