The Harlem Renaissance- A very important survey in the book, "Encyclopedia of the Harlem Renaissance," by Aberjhani and West; a preview available on Google.
The subject is too large to outline in one post; it is better to read the excerpts and the many other articles on urban Black society and its strengths.
The Black community in New York City developed their own fashions, events, and shows which were an important part of the New York scene.

The Harlem Easter Parade, as they say was legendary. Enjoyed and commented on by all New Yorkers.
The Seventh Avenue events and "scene" were observed and were the subject of several songs, including "Puttin' on the Ritz."

Don't forget to look at the stories of the "Cotton Club,", the Savoy and the Apollo Theaters which brought talented Black performers to white eyes.

Much material on Google; it would take too long to give their content, but they are there to read for anyone interested in early urban history and the first leanings toward recognition of Black artists and, I believe, the important movements toward equality in the urban communities. Similar events took place in other northern cities.

"High Yellow," by Reginald Marsh, was published in "Life Magazine," which came to many American households at the time. It is typical of the recognition of Black Society by artists. Berlin's "Ritz" was an earlier attempt to picture this segment of urban life. These efforts were an eye-opener in many ways- mock? no, a sense of wonder. (See definition of High Yellow in the Urban Dictionary
http://www.flickr.com/photos/vielles_announces/4035808638/

Henri Cartier-Bresson made notable photographs of the Harlem Easter Parade, which were published internationally.