East Harlem Unity Campaign

In New York City, East Harlem continues to face disproportionately high rates of violent crime. In response, the Bureau of Justice Assistance supported a community initiative that brought together participants—many of whom were already impacted by the system—from neighborhoods affected by gang violence. Through out the eight-week design-driven program centered on social activism, participants engaged in conversations about gun violence and its impact on their communities.

Over eight weeks, design workshops led by Lizbeth, introduced 15 young men from rival NYCHA developments to the fundamentals of Adobe Illustrator while fostering trust, collaboration, and dialogue. The workshops emphasized design’s role in social justice, encouraging participants to express their lived experiences and perspectives on gun violence. As part of the experience, the group visited Brooklyn’s Interference Archive for a private, interactive session, where they explored original political posters for inspiration on their own designs. The program culminated in a public gallery, inviting the community into the conversation and highlighting the power of creative practice as a tool for storytelling, connection, and advocacy.

PHASE 1: ADOBE ILLUSTRATOR LESSONS & FIELD TRIP
Participants attended Adobe Illustrator software trainings twice a week.
Below are a few slides from the presentation, and photos from our visit to Interference Archive.

PHASE 2: THE POSTER & BANNER DESIGNS
After nearly two months, participants finalized their posters. Banners were also co-designed with the cohort, where they brainstormed quotes that would sit alongside vectors of themselves and community members.

PHASE 3: THE UNITY CAMPAIGN GALLERY & INSTALLATION
The final products were displayed in an art gallery held in East Harlem. Posters were soon displayed in store front around the neighborhoods. Banners were installed in participants’ NYCHA developments – Jefferson Houses, Johnson Houses, and Wagner Houses.