MassLive recently asked readers to identify people they consider Black leaders in Massachusetts, working to make a difference in politics, education, business, the arts or another area of interest.
Profiles of these leaders will be published leading up to the Juneteenth holiday on June 19. These are people our readers have identified as inspirational, who may be doing good acts for their communities. They are being recognized for their accomplishments, leadership and commitment to inspire change.
Ali HaqqSebastian Restrepo
Ali Haqq
Age: 37
Community: Springfield
His story: Ali Haqq is a devoted community member in his native Springfield.
Through his firm Ali Productions, he represents local artists across various creative industries in the city.
Haqq is particularly proud of a recently launched project, a reality show focused on Springfield’s painters, musicians, comedians, dancers and other artists. He and his business partner produced a dozen episodes for Season 1 of “The Real Creatives of Springfield” and are working on more.
Haqq said he enjoys working with artists because he gets to help people pursue and achieve their dreams.
“I get to learn from helping other people out,” he said. “I like being part of people’s lives and helping them.”
Haqq said learned the value of community leadership from time spent at the Martin Luther King, Jr. Family Services community center in Springfield growing up.
He would attend programming there as an adolescent and eventually began volunteering and working for the community center. It was like a “second home,” Haqq said.
Haqq has also worked on multiple local political campaigns. In the winter, he hosts events to help gather toys for children at the local YWCA.
Haqq said he is also active in the city’s LGBTQ community. In 2021, he stood on the steps of City Hall alongside Mayor Domenic Sarno as the city for the first time hoisted the Transgender Pride Flag.
In his words: “Believe in yourself, your ideas, and your abilities. … Keep pushing forward, and never let anyone dull your sparkle.”
We’re always open to hearing about more inspiring people. If you’d like to suggest someone else who should be recognized, please fill out this form.
