Reflections

I started this project initially due to my interest in exploring "hauntings" and "lores" within New York University. One of the first buildings I came across on an online forum was the Wunsch Building as students in the past have claimed it to be haunted. However, as I started looking more into the history of why this notion exists, I started to appreciate and acknowledge the history of the Wunsch building more. From here, I explored the role that the Wunsch building has had throughout history, first as a stop on the Underground Railroad as part of the original Episcopal Church and later as the Bridge Street Church.

This was an important project to me because it established the way in which marginalized communities are often presented and advocated for in urban settings. While there is relatively more recognition for the role and history of people of color in these areas, there is also not enough opportunity to expand that acknowledgement. Recognizing people of color is crucial for fostering inclusivity and representation in urban society. These individuals have made significant contributions to various fields, including science, literature, and politics, yet their achievements and experiences are often overlooked. The goal of larger corporations and city-wide establishments should not be only acknowledge but to also challenge stereotypes and racial biases. Representation matters not only in terms of visibility but also in shaping policies that impact the lives of marginalized groups. Cultural erasure is a major issue that many urban preservation centers are attempting to combat. Thus, it is important to encourage these institutions to help promote social justice.

This topic resonates with me as a South Asian person of color living in New York City. Thus, the importance of recognizing people of color such as through this project is a concept that I am passionate about addressing. Growing up, I often felt the impact of invisibility and marginalization, as the South Asian experience was frequently dismissed in school and extracurriculars. However, with institutions encouraging and empowering South Asian voices, especially in the arts and literature, it is possible for me to embrace my identity and heritage much more. Having felt the impact of marginalization firsthand, I am driven to help connect marginalized communities, creating spaces where everyone feels recognized.