Sunset Park has a has a rich history of embracing immigrants from every continent and common wealth in the Atlas. Ever since the days of Ellis Island, this south Brooklyn neighborhood has consistenly welcomed a steady stream of strangers to its communtiy and classrooms.
Last semester, Joel Mejia challenged the students of The Dual Language School in Sunset Park to be a part of his “Dare To Dream Project” and explore immigrant heritage. Many of the children enrolled in this after school endeavor immigrated when they were babies, others are first generation Americans.
Joel began by teaching the kids photography skills. Then, he empowered them with cameras and took them for walks around the neighborhood. They discovered the meaning of juxtaposition by strolling down 8th Avenue. The children were fascinated with the vibrant colors of the Chinese shops preparing for the Lunar New Year. Just a few feet away they found a Mexican bakery and stores with signs in Arabic calligraphy.
Suddenly, the students were filled with questions on the immigrant experience and how it differed from one group to another. They learned to appreciate the struggles and accomplishments of their families and neighbors. When it came time for the kids to select the images to display in the Dare to Dream Media Festival, their compositions proved thoughtful and sophisticated. They captured the the pride of the shop owners and the symbols of the various cultures. The work in the exhibit was professional and thought provoking.
The Dare To Dream Media Festival was featured by the Mayor’s Office of Immigrant Affairs 2008 Immigrant Heritage Week.
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