The National Urban League (NUL) has officially opened its new headquarters in Harlem, a 17-story mixed-use building at 117 W. 125th St.. The facility combines residential, retail, and community spaces, marking a significant milestone for the organization, which has championed economic access and racial justice since 1910. Construction of the building began in 2021 and includes 177 affordable housing units, with rents ranging from $666 for studios to $1,478 for two-bedroom apartments based on income.
The new headquarters will serve as NUL’s operational base and a community empowerment center for residents of Harlem. The building features retail spaces, including established shops like Sephora, which have already begun operations. This initiative aims to provide essential support to Harlemites in navigating critical areas such as voting, home ownership, and employment opportunities.
In an effort to combat ongoing concerns about gentrification and displacement in Harlem, NUL is committed to ensuring that local residents can remain in their neighborhood. “We want to play a particular role in keeping Harlemites in Harlem,” stated NUL President Marc Morial, who also served as the mayor of New Orleans from 1994 to 2002.
Urban Civil Rights Museum to Enhance Community Engagement
A key feature of the new headquarters is the Urban Civil Rights Museum, located on the fourth floor. Morial emphasized that the museum will be more than just a collection of exhibits. It will function as a learning facility where visitors can engage in workshops, symposiums, and seminars that share and explore civil rights stories.
“The museum is going to be a learning facility, not just a set of exhibits,” Morial added, highlighting the importance of ongoing education and community involvement in the mission of the National Urban League.
The opening of this headquarters represents a forward-thinking approach to community development, merging essential services with residential opportunities. It reflects NUL’s longstanding commitment to fostering economic equity and social justice, aiming to empower individuals and families in Harlem to thrive in their own community.
As residents engage with the resources available at the new facility, the National Urban League hopes to continue its legacy of advocacy and support, ensuring that Harlem remains a vibrant and inclusive place for all its residents.
