These images are taken from a photo essay, which is a portrait of the community of Senegalese immigrants who live and work on 116th Street, between Fredrick Douglass and Malcolm X Boulevard.

In 1966, a cycle of droughts in the Baol-Baol region of Senegal led to a great migration out of the country. These migrants were primarily disciples of Cheik Amandu Bamba, the founder of the Islamic Murid Brotherhood. In the 80s many Murid disciples began to resettle in Harlem, New York. Initially their primary source of income was street peddling and taxi driving. By the 90s, many entrepreneurs began to create their "main street in America" along 116thStreet.

Today "Little Senegal" is thriving despite a history of discrimination and now threats of gentrification. When some one from Senegal travels to America, one of their first stops is 116th Street because everything and anyone you could want from Senegal can be found on this street.

To look at more images from this series please check out marieclaireandrea.com