Community Culture and Activism

photo: Tom Oesau

For our first Peer Learning Exchange in 2020, we convened friends and colleagues for a discussion of Community Culture and Activism. The January 16th event was inspired by ACTIVIST ESTATE: A Radical History of Property in Loisaida, an exhibit designed and curated by Nandini Bagchee and commissioned and produced by Libertad Guerra and The Loisaida Center. Visit the impressive exhibition before it closes at the end of January!

Participants got an insider view of the exhibition, which illustrates the powerful history of cultural activism on the Lower East Side, and was followed by an open discussion about community culture, activism and the importance of cultural hubs doing place-based work across the city. Opening remarks were made by Nandini Bagchee and Liberatad Guerra, with the full group following up with their own observations and experiences. Guests identified important sites, groups, and dynamics on the Lower East Side, based on their history of activism in the community. Others connected it to work they’re doing in other neighborhoods across the city. Thanks to everyone who participated!