Check out the website:
http://reclaimnyc.net/
Monday, September 14, 2009
Introduction
We are all already individually and collectively involved in the distribution and use of spaces in our cities. Every day we move through public areas such as parks, sidewalks, subways and streets, often without considering that these spaces are ours to do with as we see fit. But these spaces do not exist without our involvement. We have the ability to transform what it means to be in public. We have the capability to use shared spaces to meet our needs.
So why don't we?
As the situation stands, there are more uninhabited apartments in New York City than there are individuals who are homeless or under-housed. Supposedly public spaces such as farmers' markets, city parks, public libraries and community gardens are constantly under threat. The cost of mass transit is prohibitive for hundreds of thousands of New Yorkers.
Through the criminalization of poverty and the introduction of New York City's "Quality of Life" laws, those who are unable or unwilling to participate in capitalist consumption are excluded from public spaces and are practically rendered invisible.
But all of this can change!
Through direct action, we can turn vacant lots into community gardens and tent cities. We can reclaim our streets through spontaneous marches and block parties. We can share free swipes to those who need or want them. We can rescue and redistribute the massive amounts of food that would otherwise go to waste. We can refuse to accept that perfectly inhabitable buildings remain empty while thousands are forced to sleep in dilapidated shelters or on the streets.
Participation in this situation is simply not optional. It is not a matter of whether we are involved, but how we are involved. You are invited and encouraged to join others in taking matters into our own hands -- here and now.
So why don't we?
As the situation stands, there are more uninhabited apartments in New York City than there are individuals who are homeless or under-housed. Supposedly public spaces such as farmers' markets, city parks, public libraries and community gardens are constantly under threat. The cost of mass transit is prohibitive for hundreds of thousands of New Yorkers.
Through the criminalization of poverty and the introduction of New York City's "Quality of Life" laws, those who are unable or unwilling to participate in capitalist consumption are excluded from public spaces and are practically rendered invisible.
But all of this can change!
Through direct action, we can turn vacant lots into community gardens and tent cities. We can reclaim our streets through spontaneous marches and block parties. We can share free swipes to those who need or want them. We can rescue and redistribute the massive amounts of food that would otherwise go to waste. We can refuse to accept that perfectly inhabitable buildings remain empty while thousands are forced to sleep in dilapidated shelters or on the streets.
Participation in this situation is simply not optional. It is not a matter of whether we are involved, but how we are involved. You are invited and encouraged to join others in taking matters into our own hands -- here and now.
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