Black Vendors in Tribeca Say They Face Harassment from Provocateurs Viral Videos

Ricardo Andre, owner of Hudson Boxing in Tribeca, has reported incidents of provocateurs targeting his gym and local Black-owned businesses. These confrontations, including one involving a white man in a trench coat who allegedly attacked staff and clients on May 27, have drawn significant public attention. The man confronted two Black boxing coaches, provoking a physical altercation that escalated into chaos, resulting in police intervention.

In a similar vein, on September 25, conservative commentator Nick Shirley posted a controversial video online concerning local street vendors, framing them in a negative light. The events have sparked discussions about the treatment of Black and Latino vendors in New York City, amid a broader crackdown on unlicensed businesses led by Mayor Eric Adams. This initiative, while aimed at maintaining order, appears to disproportionately impact these minority-owned enterprises.

During the first half of 2024, the NYPD issued over 9,000 tickets to street vendors, predominantly affecting Black and Latino individuals despite making up around half of the city’s population. Such tickets can generate fines of up to $1,000, imposing further financial strain on affected vendors.

As a result, many West African vendors report increased anxiety and are reevaluating their business strategies, opting for more discreet selling methods due to safety concerns and ongoing police scrutiny. Hudson Boxing has adjusted its operations to adapt to the circumstances, shifting classes into a smaller studio space.