The application period for our 2024 Six to Celebrate program is now open! Now in its 13th year, this initiative stands as a testament to our collective commitment to preserving the rich and diverse history of New York City.
As a participant in this program, community organizations will gain support and resources from HDC. Each of the six chosen recipients receives specialized assistance in their preservation efforts throughout the year and beyond. This includes:
- Expert guidance on advocacy and educational campaigns.
- Assistance in effective communication of your preservation message.
- Planning and execution of walking tours and other community-promoting programs.
- A reimbursable grant of up to $1,000 to support preservation-related activities.
2023 Six to Celebrate Highlight
The Historic Districts Council (HDC) is proud to highlight the work of the Bushwick Historic Preservation Association (BHPA) as a part of our 2023 Six to Celebrate program. The BHPA, a group comprising community advocates and members of Brooklyn Community Board 4, showed exceptional involvement in the program and this post aims to highlight their achievements through our collaboration with the Six to Celebrate program.
For their Six to Celebrate participation, BHPA’s goals were the protection, recognition and contextual assessment of Bushwick’s historic resources.
BHPA's achievements as a 2023 Six to Celebrate participant include:
- In collaboration with HDC, BHPA organized a press conference with Councilmembers Sandy Nurse and Jennifer Gutierrez. This event focused on demanding action and equity from the LPC, highlighting the urgent need for preservation efforts in Bushwick.
- BHPA and HDC have held several meetings with the LPC and elected officials. These discussions aimed at promoting a contextual understanding and assessment of Bushwick's historic resources, advocating for a nuanced approach to preservation.
- The association successfully garnered support for historic preservation in Bushwick, securing letters from several elected officials.
- Walking tour: HDC and BHPA hosted a walking tour of the neighborhood.
- Started a letter writing and postcard campaign among Bushwick residents to show support for landmarks in the community.
- Partnered with South Bushwick Church on cleanup and advocacy efforts to support maintenance of their landmarked structure.
- BHPA is working alongside HDC to initiate the process for recognizing Bushwick's historic resources on the National Register.
The Bushwick Historic Preservation Association's proactive and responsive participation in the 2023 Six to Celebrate program exemplifies the potential impact of community-driven preservation efforts.
Their dedication to protecting and advocating for Bushwick's historic resources has not only raised awareness but also gained substantial support from various stakeholders. As a result, BHPA serves as a model for other community groups looking to engage in historic preservation and advocacy. Their efforts underscore the importance of community involvement in preserving the cultural and architectural heritage of our cities.
Does this sound like something your community would be interested in? Click the link below to apply now!
Click Here to Apply