This past Summer, as a 2015 NYC U.S. Department of Arts & Culture (a non-government people-powered arts and culture social justice network) Cultural Agent, Betty organized two successful community-based art-infused events, “Imagining: Creative Strategies to Fight Gentrification” in June and July 2015 bringing together over 300 artists, cultural workers, mediamakers, housing rights activists, organizers, community residents and other stakeholders to imagine a future where everyone has adequate housing and it is seen as a human right.
It was unique in that it brought together a cross section of movement and cultural leaders and social justice artists to tackle the omni-present issue of gentrification in our neighborhoods throughout NYC. Participants expressed the desire to have a regular space for organizers, activists, artists, creative folks and other stakeholders to meet and share creative and cultural strategies. From the discussions at smaller scale, place-based Imaginings to other more informal conversations- an overwhelming amount of New Yorkers agree that gentrification and housing displacement is a to key issue facing all New Yorkers and connects and cuts across many other issues like police violence, education reform, labor rights.
Check out photos from the June 2nd
Also, check out this article about the event.
Participants Break Out into Groups by Borough
A "People's Anti-Displacement Art Hub" displaying housing justice and anti-displacement themed art
Cultural workers, artists, filmmakers and organizers share their cultural work and needs
Each breakout group created visual maps - illustrating their vision for housing justice in hte year 2035