Goodvibesinthepark (GIVP) was born out of a necessity to create a safe space centering people of color during a very turbulent climate of inequality and racial reckoning in America, specifically on the human rights injustice of racism, public health disparities and inequities. With a main focus on mental health while juxtaposing joy, relaxation and the serenity of outdoor spaces, I created a socially distanced gathering called Goodvibesinthepark that was rapidly embraced by the community. GVIP activities included guided meditation, performances by local musicians (who welcomed the funding especially due to the financial impact of the pandemic), sessions focused on wellness and mental health, dance yoga, social justice guest speakers and a live jazz soul band. I am currently planning to bring it back for the 2021 Summer season and especially to celebrate Juneteenth. Additionally, the community still remains supportive, for example GVIP was just conferred a prestigious Letter of Support by Community Board 10 in Harlem.As an artist, activist and cultural curator, I witnessed and felt first-hand, the effects of last summer's protests after George Floyd's murder on many around the country and here in NYC. People around me were seeking physical & mental health safe-spaces, affirmations and other needs that the turbulent climate of the country exacerbated. I saw communal gatherings at outdoor spaces at the park as a place, if safe & socially distanced, that could be used for this need. I saw a way to merge my artistry, activism and cultural curator experience into a way I could provide solace and support to my community - and this is what made me feel equipped to start Goodvibesinthepark with the support of other like-minded individuals.
As an artist, activist and cultural curator, I often find that accessibility to creative spaces is financially difficult. I often have to fund such access through the little income I have while not sacrificing quality. GVIP's message has resonated so well so far because it is unabashed in championing social justice, mental health and fighting systemic oppression. If I win, it would be beyond helpful in giving me a space to create a series of visuals (called Good Vibes for Change) that tackles the aforementioned causes/issues that GVIP represents/addresses. For example, recently, I released powerful poem with accompanying visuals about how people of African ancestry have a beautiful/yet complicated relationship with water. It has really resonated with many & was just selected as a top 10 finalist for Amplify Africa and yesterday it was announced as the 1st place winner. While I am so delighted for such a victory, I was significantly limited with resources (including access to and funding for a creative space) in formulating visuals & other creative aspects of the composition. I, of-course, made do and it worked out, but many times this isn't the case. I offer this as an example of the types of issues I am sure to face when creating the visual series for GVIP and specifically Good Vibes for Change - funding for access to creative space.
Peerspace is on a mission to bring people together. We believe it is impossible to achieve that goal unless we also fight for equality and access to resources in the communities we serve.
Having a space to gather, create, and exchange ideas is an important part of any movement. In order to magnify voices that are often quieted, Peerspace will sponsor venues for people who challenge prejudice and fight for social justice and equality.
Each quarter, we will sponsor space for three projects that are relevant to our community. These projects can range from fundraisers and educational initiatives to art exhibits and photo series.
