How the signage in Fort Greene, Boerum Hill, and Clinton Hill unite communities
I was born and raised in Fort Greene, Brooklyn often visiting other neighborhoods growing up such as Clinton Hill and Boerum Hill which were close in distance. These lively communities were built on the backbone of cultural diversity and well established historical backgrounds. It is evident that when people walk the streets within the area, the feeling of being a part of something much greater than themselves is evoked. The area’s engaging murals foster creative thinking and inclusivity for all, the historical plaques celebrate the architectural diversity and preservation of the community, and fun informational posters serve not only as an educational tools for the communities but also as a reminder of the affluent roots of our borough; inspiring people to make their mark on the community as others have. By engaging with the residents of these communities the signage is often perceived as a strategic instrument that cultivates unity within the neighborhoods.
Figure 1. Map of Clinton Hill, Boerum Hill, and Fort Greene. (https://maps.app.goo.gl/TJbrmm7SkWpBA3Qj6)
Figure 2. Clinton Hill, Boerum Hill, and Fort Greene historical district plaques.
In Figure 2 we see the New York Landmarks Preservation Foundations plaques scattered around various historical landmark neighborhoods. These signs are important in neighborhoods such as Clinton Hill, Boerum Hill, and Fort Greene because residents and tourists are educated about the rich historical background of the community. For example, the plaque in Clinton Hill highlights churches, unique carriage houses, Italianate and French-style buildings, and mansions built by prominent families. The text is written in a traditional white and elegant font with a bronze-brown background that evokes a sense of historical authenticity and permanence. This bronze-brown color is reminiscent of aged materials, making the plaque blend in perfectly with the architecture. By strategically choosing the font and color the New York Landmarks Preservation aims to captivate the interest of pedestrians. By serving as a reminder of their common background, these historic plaques not only help to preserve the past but also promote a sense of communal unity. When communities know their history, they are equipped with the knowledge to protect and preserve the uniqueness within the neighborhoods. This commitment to preservation is what may lead to people being brought together to work towards common objectives.
Building Unity Through Community Engagement.
Figure 3. Posters on Fort Greene Park Bulletin Board
In Figure 3. we see three distinct signs outside of Fort Greene Park, all of which serve as a micrcosm of the communitites values. The first sign (Fig 3.1) engages the community through emotion, prompting community members to reach out to wellness coaches trained to provide support on a consortium of topics. For example, these coaches provide “holistic health and wellness support.” This relates to the theme of unity because they have created a safe space where individuals may come together to address common challenges faced in their lives and receive unwavering support.
Another example is the “ Volunteer at Fort Greene Park” poster which fosters unity through the common interest in volunteering. Volunteering creates a strong bond amongst the community as they work side by side as shown in the picture. This sign’s title is written in all caps with the word volunteer in bright yellow. I interpret this as a way to get community members involved in the volunteering space by trying to intrigue them with the style and bright colors of this sign.
The last picture (Fig 3.3) is a sign which encourages the community to watch a live performance in both Spanish and English. Although the sign highlights that the performance will also be in Spanish the text is in English. My hypothesis for this is that there might not be much Hispanic descent within the community however, many people in this community may appreciate Spanish music and culture.
Figure 4. Fort Greene Events Poster
Additionally, this vibrant sign in Figure 4 showcases the vast amounts of activities provided within Fort Greene, appealing to its residents of broadly diverse age groups and cultures. The “BKLYN BOO!” event caters to families and children through interactive events like puppet shows. The “Lunar New Year Celebration” fosters unity through celebrating Chinese culture. By providing this platform for cultural exchange it gives opprotunity for others to appreciate and understand Fort Greene’s increasing Asian population possibly bridging the cultural gaps within the community. Lastly, color choices like bright pink and blue are represented for the purpose of intriguing pedestrians and encouraging them to partake in the events.
Fostering Unity Through Inclusive Art.
Figure 4. Inclusive Signs in Boerum Hill and Fort Greene.
These murals portray how these communities foster unity by inclusivity, specifically for the LGBTQ community. The first mural labels the LGBTQ community members as heroes and thanks them. Within this message, we see the different colors of the words. The use of the color purple symbolizes spirit and community within the LGBTQ community. Similarly, the mural “You Belong Here” offers a definitive message of inclusion in the neighborhood. The use of vibrant yellow in both murals symbolizes sunlight which within the LGBTQ community is often perceived as positivity, energy, hope, and a bright future ahead. When combined, these signs support the LGBTQ+ community and foster a sense of communal unity by creating an inviting and welcoming atmosphere that embraces all people.