New York Street
“I ❤️NY.” The simple slogan held little meaning for me while growing up in Hawaii, a tourist destination in its own right. Many years later, while visiting a college friend in New York City, I was entranced by this assertive and fast-paced city – an exciting contrast from Honolulu.
My admiration for New York City deepened in November 2001, just two months after the horrific attacks on the World Trade Center. Running the NYC Marathon, I witnessed the welcoming and resilient spirit of New Yorkers as they enthusiastically supported runners through all five of her boroughs. Following marathon lore, I spelt my nickname ‘Ali’ on my shirt with red duct tape and was met with personalized cheers of encouragement along the way. The marathon route also served as an unforgettable city-wide rally for the NYPD, NYFD and other 9/11 first responders.
Twenty-two years later, I was drawn back to New York City for a workshop to practice my street photography skills, knowing the city offered a wealth of compelling subjects. As a middle-aged Asian woman in the post-Covid era, concerns about reported anti-Asian violence weighed on my mind as I was preparing for my trip.
I wandered mostly solo through Manhattan for a week, with a day-trip to Coney Island. Each day required a great deal of energy to navigate the city on foot, attempting to be both invisible and outgoing. I found the courage to ask strangers for their portraits, and most were agreeable. I realized that the city had once again triumphed over a devastating blow – this time from a microscopic virus – and was back to its outgoing self.
Making photos allowed me to briefly connect with many friendly New Yorkers. One girl with strikingly vibrant neon pink hair hoped to meet up for another session after I emailed her the portraits I made. This experience confirmed a personal belief – the aloha spirit is a state of mind, one that is alive and well in New York City.
Note: Asterik indicates photographic print in exhibit at Downtown Art Center