This past weekend we checked in on the "open mic & local talent" day, sponsored by GOLES (Good Old Lower East Side) at the Generation X Garden on East 4th Street. It was part of SummerFest, a series GOLES is starting up to engage the community. Since 1977, the organization has been "dedicated to tenants’ rights, homelessness prevention, economic development and community revitalization." You can find out more about their services and mission here. There were some great performances on Saturday. but also important messages from City Council member Rosie Mendez and GOLES community organizers: embracing the neighborhood's traditional culture and fighting displacement due to gentrification have never been more important. Take a look:
