Passing the Torch: Celebrating the Legacy of DeWitt R. Lee III as the 2023 Brown Bag Man of the Year
It is with mixed emotions that we announce the passing of the torch from the incomparable DeWitt R. Lee III, current Brown Bag Man of the Year, to his successor in 2024.
Mr. Lee has demonstrated exceptional dedication to his community and has left an indelible mark on the cities of Buffalo, NY, and Toronto, ON. We are honored to celebrate his remarkable achievements as the founder of St. Brian's Clothier, his role as "Kente Claus," as well as his instrumental contributions to the Buffalo business landscape. As we bid farewell to Mr. Lee, we reflect on his impactful journey and eagerly await the announcement of the next Brown Bag Man of the Year.
Remembering DeWitt R. Lee III's Accomplishments:
As the founder of St. Brian's Clothier, Mr. Lee transformed tragedy into an opportunity for healing and empowerment. In the aftermath of the tragic racist attack on Buffalo's Black community on May 14, he tirelessly collected men's suits, blazers, shirts, ties, and dress shoes. Through the "Giveaway of Hope," he offered these items for free to those who needed them for upcoming funerals and events, honoring their slain neighbors. Mr. Lee's compassion and generosity touched the lives of countless individuals, providing them with a sense of dignity during difficult times and continues to do so to this day.
Moreover, Mr. Lee created the role of "Kente Claus," creating spaces to celebrate African history and culture. His commitment to preserving and honoring our collective heritage resonated deeply, fostering a sense of pride and unity among community members. Additionally, his efforts were not limited to Buffalo alone, as he played a significant role in fostering cultural exchange with our neighbors in Toronto.
Mr. Lee's tireless activism extends beyond his charitable endeavors. Through his influential contributions to the Buffalo Mafioso, he exemplifies a commitment to justice and equality. His collaborative efforts strengthened ties between communities and dismantled barriers, ensuring that every voice was heard.
Mr. Lee serves as a shining example of what it means to be a servant leader and to have a genuine love for those you serve.
Celebrating the Legacy and Looking Ahead:
As we bid adieu to DeWitt R. Lee III, we acknowledge the immeasurable impact he has had on the Brown Bag Man of the Year legacy. Filling his shoes will indeed be a daunting task for the 2024 recipient. However, we have no doubt that the next Brown Bag Man of the Year will rise to the challenge and continue the tradition of inspiring change and promoting community upliftment.
As this is just a snippet of Mr. Lee's accomplishments and contributions, we encourage you to continue to learn more, follow his impactful journey, and find ways to support here: DeWitt R. Lee Linktree
We invite you to stay tuned for the exciting announcement of the 2024 Brown Bag Man of the Year. Our forthcoming blog post will introduce you to the exceptional individual who will carry forward Mr. Lee's legacy and honor their own unique contributions to the community.
In conclusion, we join hands in gratitude as we bid farewell to DeWitt R. Lee III, an individual whose dedication and selflessness have left an indelible mark on our cities. Let us celebrate his accomplishments and embrace the future with hope, knowing that the spirit of the Brown Bag Man of the Year will continue to shine brightly in the years to come.
Make sure to check back for the exciting announcement of the 2024 Brown Bag Man of the Year!