María Magdalena Campos-Pons promotes unity in New York City, connecting uptown and downtown areas and addressing disparities in city parks.
In a bid to promote love, unity, and hope, Cuban American artist María Magdalena Campos-Pons organized a walk in East Harlem that attracted about 120 participants. The event, known as the “Procession of Angels for Radical Love and Unity,” was held in September and saw a diverse crowd donning white, yellow, and blue attire. The walk, which began at the Harlem Art Park and will conclude in Madison Square Park, aims to bridge the gap between different communities in New York City.
Campos-Pons emphasized that the walk was not a protest but a demonstration of love and solidarity. The event featured support from renowned artist Carrie Mae Weems and models showcasing designs by House of Bartholomew. Participants carried signs with messages of gratitude, love, and unity, symbolizing the spirit of the procession.
The artist highlighted the disparities between the starting point in East Harlem and the endpoint in the affluent Flatiron district. She expressed a desire for the event to spark conversations about justice and resource allocation in the city. By bringing together individuals from various backgrounds, the walk seeks to promote inclusivity and understanding among different communities.
The first leg of the procession took place at the Harlem Art Park, a modest location in East Harlem with historical significance for African American and diaspora communities. The second part of the event will commence at Central Park and culminate in Madison Square Park, symbolizing a journey from a marginalized area to a more privileged neighborhood.
Campos-Pons’ vision for the procession is to inspire positive change and foster connections among New Yorkers from diverse backgrounds. Through art and community engagement, she aims to create a platform for dialogue and reflection on social issues such as equity and access to resources. The event serves as a reminder of the power of unity and collective action in addressing societal challenges.
Overall, the “Procession of Angels for Radical Love and Unity” is a symbolic gesture of solidarity and hope, bringing together individuals from different walks of life to promote a message of love and inclusivity. By highlighting the importance of community engagement and social justice, the event encourages participants to reflect on ways to create a more equitable and compassionate society.
Source: The NY Times