Serrano Honors Local Environmental Activist

“Brother Talib is a local legend and someone who has dedicated his entire life to environmental activism and education,” Congressman Serrano said. “Seventy-five years is a milestone, and I’m pleased to be among the many Bronx residents who are recognizing Brother Talib’s many contributions to our borough.”

The full letter is below:

Brother Abu Talib
c/o Taqwa Community Garden
E. 164th and Ogden Avenue
Bronx, NY 10452

Dear Brother Talib:

I write to you with admiration and deep appreciation for the many years of service you have given to this borough. As I am certain you know better than most, smart, sensible, and community-driven development should always ensure a place for green space in our neighborhoods. Urban gardens can and should be an essential part of that mix. But as we look ahead to a bright (and green) future for our borough, in my view nothing becomes more important than paying tribute to the true innovators, like yourself, who helped make possible all the excitement that we celebrate today.

The Bronx has been transformed into a critical hub of energy and imagination for environmental activism and Taqwa Community Garden owns a part of this legacy. With little fanfare, you have quietly and humbly gone about the work of teaching a generation of Bronxites how to grow and harvest a community garden. You have turned Taqwa Community Garden into a fine example of grassroots education and empowerment, and you have taught our children the meaning and importance of making healthy food choices. And before phrases like “green jobs” and “sustainable development” were as accessible to people as they are today, you understood the value of these ideas and practiced them right here in the South Bronx.

I am aware that your journey with respect to this garden has been long and steady and often against the odds. But you must know that we are indebted to you for your quiet leadership, your decency, and your perseverance. And as someone who has also spent a great many years in the service of others, I believe that no one is more deserving of the recognition that the Bronx is now receiving than people like you, our elders, who helped show us the way.

Sincerely,

Congressman José E. Serrano