Yasmeen Persaud
September 9, 2019
Multimedia Reporting
Photo essay project
A more in-depth look at an ethnic enclave — how one West-Indian singer is building a life and career out of her own ‘Little Guyana’ in Queens
In the heart of the uproar that is Queens stands Liberty Avenue — a neighborhood which advertises a long stretch of beauty shops, halal carts, grocery shops and lively restaurants. Upon the walls on the sides of buildings, and within the counters of mini pastry shops rests flyers that advertise local singers in the neighborhood.
Singers within this community are often limited to small locations and small promotions, but one woman packs a powerhouse punch in order to gain more recognition — Sushila Devi. Devi has been involved in the promotion of many events and programs throughout the area. Devi has been singing Hindi music for many years, with her roots taking her back to Guyana.
Devi can offer an inside look into the culture of West-Indian singing communities in Queens. The ethnic mix that this side of Queens offers seems to not be discussed as often as it should. A day in the life of this singer would include a beautiful profile of her singing at various events ranging from her religious singing efforts performed at temples, to her more upbeat performances at party halls. Devi will provide insight into the intense dedication and hard work that these singers must accomplish on a daily basis.
Source 1: https://www.washingtonpost.com/lifestyle/travel/2014/10/02/38ec1260-4998-11e4-a046-120a8a855cca_story.html (This is a link to a Washington Post article that describes the culture that Devi is exposed to in her local community)
Source 2: Sushila Devi (Devi is interested in being interviewed and photographed for this project)