Remarkable celebration of unity, diversity unveiled at Immigrants Are Us: (G)eneration Project event with The Statue of Liberty-Ellis Island Foundation
By Richard E. Pelzer II
On Wednesday, June 21, 2023, Immigrants Are Us: The (G)eneration Project proudly presented the groundbreaking (G)Pop-In event that captivated the hearts of New Yorkers and visitors alike. The special event, titled “What Is Your (G) Status?”, which was held in association with The Statue of Liberty-Ellis Island Foundation, exceeded all expectations, leaving an indelible mark on the city’s cultural landscape. We are thrilled to share the resounding success of this extraordinary occasion during the celebration of Immigrant Heritage Month.
Against the stunning backdrop of the National Museum of Immigration on Ellis Island, the (G) Pop-In took place along The American Immigrant Wall of Honor, a remarkable tribute to the immigrant journey and a celebration of family heritage. Since its unveiling in 1990, the Wall has represented the diverse tapestry that is America, with nearly one million names inscribed upon it. On Wednesday, it served as the perfect stage for an afternoon filled with exhibitions, art making, storytelling, and heartfelt dialogue.
Aligned with the citywide celebration of Immigrant Heritage Month, the event harmoniously integrated with THIS IS NY‘s mission to embrace and honor the rich diversity that defines New York City as the world’s cultural epicenter. From the moment the doors opened, attendees were immersed in an experience that fostered understanding, unity, and a profound appreciation for our collective heritage.
With over 40 million individuals living in the U.S. who were born in other countries, the importance of immigration in shaping our society cannot be overstated. New York City, home to a vibrant tapestry of cultures, proudly boasts a foreign-born population representing 38% of its populace and accounting for 46% of the labor force. The (G)eneration Project introduced the concept of (G) Status, ranging from G-0s to G-600, to symbolize the generations of individuals or families that have resided in the U.S. This innovative nomenclature emphasizes our shared history of migration and encourages a deeper appreciation of our collective heritage.
“What Is Your (G) Status?” was a resounding success, with attendees wholeheartedly embracing the spirit of unity and empathy. The event provided a platform for art making, story sharing, and meaningful discussions that celebrated the immigrant spirit and encapsulated the essence of our remarkable city. By engaging in dialogue that bridges the gaps between diverse backgrounds and experiences, participants discovered that our similarities far outweigh our differences.
The (G)eneration Project is a public art campaign that celebrates the fact that we are ALL immigrants. Through public participation initiatives such as “What Is Your (G) Status?”, we continue to celebrate the immigrant experience that lies at the very heart of American identity, encouraging individuals to see themselves in each other and forge connections that transcend boundaries.
Richard E. Pelzer II, the esteemed Director of Marketing and Community Engagement at the (G) Project, expresses his reflections on the resounding success of the event; “The success of the (G) Project ‘s Pop-In Statue of Liberty-Ellis Island Edition would not have been possible without leadership participation of Suzanne Mannion, Director, Public Affairs of the Statue of Liberty-Ellis Island Foundation, the active participation of her staff and support of the community. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to all those who joined us in this celebration of unity, diversity, and shared stories. Together, we have taken significant strides towards a more inclusive future, one that embraces the richness of our collective heritage.”
As we reflect on the resounding success of “What Is Your (G) Status?”, Immigrants Are Us: The (G)eneration Project invites you to embark on this ongoing journey of unity, empathy, and celebration. Let us continue to honor and celebrate the immigrant spirit that makes our nation truly extraordinary during the month of June and everyday. Together, we can shape a brighter future that acknowledges our shared humanity and uplifts us all.
Discover more about our initiatives and programs, and make a meaningful contribution towards their continuation by visiting our website at gproject.org. Your generous donation will empower us to make a lasting impact and drive positive change in our communities.
Special Thank You To:
Bob London, Photographer
Max Hochberg, Videographer
Claire Hunt, intern class of 2023
Retta Karpinski, intern class of 2023
Madison Buffington – Fundraising Operations Associate of The Statue of Liberty-Ellis Island Foundation
National Park Service Rangers.
