New York City’s newest museum, WHAM!, is ambitious in its goal to lift up the multitude of international cultures in Woodside. In this episode Epicenter’s Co-Founder and Creative Director Nitin Mukul talks to Artist and WHAM! founder Harley J. Spiller. Harley brings more than 40 years of professional museum and curating experience, and currently serves as the executive director of Franklin Furnace Archive. He also sits on the board of directors of City Reliquary as well as the Voelker Orth Museum, Victorian Gardens and Bird Sanctuary in Flushing.  Meet WHAM!, NYC’s newest art museum: https://epicenter-nyc.com/meet-wham-nycs-newest-art-museum/ Learn more about WHAM!: https://whamartmuseum.org/ Epicenter-NYC membership: https://checkout.fundjournalism.org/memberform?org_id=epicenternyc&campaign=7018a000000yJx6AAOur intro music: http://karavikamusic.com/

Today is the last day of Asian Pacific American Heritage Month and Mental Health Awareness Month. But as May comes to a close, it’s important to remember that mental health issues in the AAPI community and beyond continue to exist. Epicenter’s S. Mitra Kalita speaks with Abu Nasim. Abu is a New York CIty based psychologist. They discuss why there aren't more South Asian therapists, the social stigma around seeking therapy, inherited trauma related to migration, the model minority myth and so much more. Asian American Federation Mental Health Directory: https://mhd.aafederation.org/ There’s a new directory of Asian therapists. We talked to one: https://epicenter-nyc.com/mental-health-and-asian-americans/ There’s one thing uniting Black and Brown entrepreneurs: https://epicenter-nyc.com/theres-one-thing-uniting-black-and-brown-entrepreneurs/ Epicenter-NYC membership: https://checkout.fundjournalism.org/memberform?org_id=epicenternyc&campaign=7018a000000yJx6AA Our intro music: http://karavikamusic.com/

In the wake of the public killing of Jordan Neely many of us are now asking ourselves “what would I have done if I was in that subway car?” Being a bystander to an uncomfortable or violent event can be scary and confusing and often people aren’t equipped with the skills to react. Other times we fall victim to the bystander effect, thinking someone else will take action. In this episode Epicenter’s Danielle Hyams speaks to Emily May, the president and cofounder of “Right to Be”. The nonprofit is dedicated to helping people become more responsible bystanders. "Right to Be" free trainings: https://righttobe.org/upcoming-free-trainings/ How to be a more responsible bystander: https://epicenter-nyc.com/how-to-be-a-more-responsible-bystander/ New Yorkers react to the murder of Jordan Neely: https://epicenter-nyc.com/new-yorkers-react-to-the-murder-of-jordan-neely/ Epicenter-NYC membership: https://checkout.fundjournalism.org/memberform?org_id=epicenternyc&campaign=7018a000000yJx6AA Our intro music: http://karavikamusic.com/

There’s a desi explosion in theater - on and off Broadway. Life of Pi, based on the best-selling book by Yann Martel, has already been nominated for multiple Tony’s. Monsoon Wedding has been so popular that its run at the St. Ann’s Warehouse in Brooklyn has been extended. And Mughal-e-Azam is opening at the Koch Theater at Lincoln Center next month. And these are just a handful of the South Asian-themed works that are captivating audiences across New York City and across the country. In this episode Epicenter's S. Mitra Kalita speaks to New York Indian Film Festival director and film critic Aseem Chhabra about this moment in South Asian arts and culture and the shows you won’t want to miss. Tickets for Life of Pi:https://lifeofpibway.com/  Tickets for Monsoon Wedding:https://stannswarehouse.org/show/monsoon-wedding-the-musical/  Tickets for Mughal-e-Azam:https://www.davidhkochtheater.com/tickets-and-events/mughal-e-azam-the-musical-play/  Epicenter-NYC membership: https://checkout.fundjournalism.org/memberform?org_id=epicenternyc&campaign=7018a000000yJx6AA Our intro music:http://karavikamusic.com/

In Part II of our series on Drag Story Hours in NYC we hear from parents and advocates. We'll also share more on how neighbors are fighting right wing groups like the proud boys. And later - some tips on what you can do to help. New York Indian Film Festival: https://www.eventbrite.com/cc/nyiff-2023-1992469 Drag Story Hour NYC: https://www.dshnyc.org/ Epicenter-NYC membership: https://checkout.fundjournalism.org/memberform?org_id=epicenternyc&campaign=7018a000000yJx6AA Our intro music: http://karavikamusic.com/

For years, parents and kids across New York City have been going to Drag Story Hours. Its goal is to provide a safe space to promote reading, inclusion, and diversity. But as the events have become a target for hate, supporters have another goal… to ensure Drag Story Hours continues to exist. We want to start with the basics. What exactly is a Drag Story Hour? And why are kids and parents across the city packing rooms to participate? Drag Story Hour NYC: https://www.dshnyc.org/ Epicenter-NYC membership: https://checkout.fundjournalism.org/memberform?org_id=epicenternyc&campaign=7018a000000yJx6AA Our intro music: http://karavikamusic.com/

In June of this year, the Supreme Court is expected to roll back affirmative action. Among those taking a stand is Lee Bollinger. Bollinger is the current president of Columbia University and throughout his career he’s fought for the use of racial preferences to promote diversity – perhaps most notably with his role in Grutter v. Bollinger, a 2003 Supreme Court decision that’s at risk of being overturned. Today, Bollinger continues to push for race-based admissions with his new book “A Legacy of Discrimination: The Essential Constitutionality of Affirmative Action”, co-authored with Geoffrey Stone. In this episode Epicenter’s S. Mitra Kalita talks to Bollinger about the book and what he sees as the biggest challenges ahead. A Legacy of Discrimination: The Essential Constitutionality of Affirmative Action: https://global.oup.com/academic/product/a-legacy-of-discrimination-9780197685747?cc=us&lang=en& Lee Bollinger’s Last-Ditch Case to Save Affirmative Action: https://time.com/charter/6270379/lee-bollingers-last-ditch-case-to-save-affirmative-action/ Epicenter-NYC membership: https://checkout.fundjournalism.org/memberform?org_id=epicenternyc&campaign=7018a000000yJx6AA Our intro music: http://karavikamusic.com/

In 2022 the first legal purchase of recreational cannabis in New York City was made at a dispensary in Greenwich Village. Since then only a few more recreational dispensaries have opened. The lag has prompted tons of unlicensed and unregulated sellers to fill the gaps. Now, officials are cracking down on these sellers. Why? The mairjuana they sell is untaxed, unregulated, and they could hinder the success of licensed businesses. In this episode we hear from reporter Felipe De La Hoz about how this year will set the tone for the New York cannabis industry going forward. NY’s marijuana regulations fall short:https://epicenter-nyc.com/nys-marijuana-regulations-fall-short/ Freelance Health Reporter:https://epicenter-nyc.com/freelance-health-reporter/ Epicenter-NYC membership: https://checkout.fundjournalism.org/memberform?org_id=epicenternyc&campaign=7018a000000yJx6AA Our intro music: http://karavikamusic.com/

Van and Sumit Sharma returned home to live with family at the start of the Covid-19 pandemic. Their parents run one of the oldest Indian restaurants in Maine, so home meant helping out with the family business. That work led them to a new venture - an Indian beer brand called Rupee. Now, they're on a mission to bring Indian beer to a wider audience. In this episode Epicenter-NYC Editorial Manager, Danielle Hyams, talks to Van, who now lives in New York, about why they decided to launch Rupee and what’s next. Find Rupee: https://www.rupeebeer.com/ Epicenter-NYC membership: https://checkout.fundjournalism.org/memberform?org_id=epicenternyc&campaign=7018a000000yJx6AA Our intro music: http://karavikamusic.com/

Located in Washington Heights and Inwood, People’s Theatre Project, or PTP, makes theater with and for immigrant communities. Over the past 14 years PTP has become Manhattan’s largest performing arts organization north of Harlem. PTP’s newest play is called “The Diamond” and it premieres on April 12th. In this episode we hear from PTP Founding Executive Director Mino Lora, “The Diamond” playwright Christin Eve Cato, and Actor Vida Tayebati. People's Theatre Project: https://peoplestheatreproject.org/ The Diamond (tickets): https://peoplestheatreproject.org/thediamond/ Epicenter-NYC membership: https://checkout.fundjournalism.org/memberform?org_id=epicenternyc&campaign=7018a000000yJx6AA Our intro music: http://karavikamusic.com/

Construction, electrical, and carpentry are just a few of the most male-dominated industries in the country. But there are still a lot of barriers. So as Women’s History Month comes to a close, we asked two female union workers about their experiences working in a male-dominated industry, misconceptions about unions and more.  The female faces of organized labor: https://epicenter-nyc.com/the-female-faces-of-organized-labor/ The women of hip hop who inspire New Yorkers: https://epicenter-nyc.com/the-women-of-hip-hop-that-inspire-new-yorkers/ Epicenter-NYC membership: https://checkout.fundjournalism.org/memberform?org_id=epicenternyc&campaign=7018a000000yJx6AA Our intro music: http://karavikamusic.com/

Starting today, March 22nd, Muslims across the world will celebrate Ramadan. Non-Muslims often associate the holiday with fasting since those who observe it refrain from any food or drinks between sunrise and sunset. But it’s much more than that.  In this episode we learn from Imam Fadhel Alahlani of the Imam-Al Khoei Islamic Center of New York and Mirum Zafar, the senior community outreach and enrollment coordinator at the Arab-American Family Support Center. More than a fast: What Ramadan truly means:https://epicenter-nyc.com/more-than-a-fast-what-ramadan-truly-means/ AAFSC: https://www.aafscny.org/donate/ Imam-Al Khoei Islamic Center of New York: https://www.al-khoei.org/ Epicenter-NYC membership: https://checkout.fundjournalism.org/memberform?org_id=epicenternyc&campaign=7018a000000yJx6AA Our intro music: http://karavikamusic.com/

“The Big Apple” is New York City’s most popular nickname. But where does it come from? In this episode Epicenter Editorial Director, Danielle Hyams, talks to writer and artist, Regi Taylor, about his work uncovering the history of the term. Regi has spent years researching its origins and the crucial role that Harlem played – not just in creating it, but in popularizing it. Now, he wants to get Black New Yorkers the recognition they deserve. Ever wonder how New York City got universally dubbed “The Big Apple?”: https://epicenter-nyc.com/ever-wonder-how-new-york-city-got-universally-dubbed-the-big-apple/ Epicenter-NYC membership: https://checkout.fundjournalism.org/memberform?org_id=epicenternyc&campaign=7018a000000yJx6AA Our intro music: http://karavikamusic.com/

For many formerly convicted New Yorkers, housing is a key part of re-entering society, but it's also one of the hardest things to secure. The Fair Chance Act aims to change that by making it an unlawful discriminatory practice for housing providers to do criminal background checks, or inquire about arrest or conviction records. Today we hear from two formerly incarcerated New Yorkers about their experiences getting housing and what a fair chance would mean to them. This episode focuses on the experiences of our neighbors post-incarceration, on who they are now. Remember, a person should never be reduced to the worst thing they may have done. Learn more about The Fair Chance Act: https://www.fairchancehousing.org/faqs Epicenter-NYC membership: https://checkout.fundjournalism.org/memberform?org_id=epicenternyc&campaign=7018a000000yJx6AA Our intro music: http://karavikamusic.com/

Hillstone, a longtime Midtown staple, abruptly closed on Sunday, January 16th. Staff was informed that same morning. So how did a beloved national chain with an impeccable reputation end up closing with absolutely no notice to its longtime workers? In this episode Epicenter writer Hari Adivarekar talks to former Hillstone bartender, Salvador Robledo, about what it was like to find out that his job of 22 years wouldn’t exist anymore. Workers left in the lurch as Hillstone shutters its Midtown branch: https://epicenter-nyc.com/workers-left-in-the-lurch-as-hillstone-shutters-its-midtown-branch/ Job search & resume classes: https://www.nypl.org/help/getting-oriented/for-job-seekers/programs Epicenter-NYC membership: https://epicenter-nyc.com/the-case-for-epicenter-membership-one-auntie-to-another/ Our intro music: http://karavikamusic.com/

Jennifer Wu is a partner at a law firm by day with an active pro bono practice representing victims of anti-Asian hate by night. Growing up, she realized that her parents did not want to be perceived as Asian. It was the 80s and the height of anti-Japanese sentiment as the Detroit auto industry blamed Japanese automakers for taking away their jobs. And much like today, anti-Asian hate crimes were on the rise. As she pursued a career in law, Wu always gravitated toward representing people who she thought were underrepresented. Now, she feels it’s more important than ever to support her community. Lessons from Jennifer Wu on the meaning of justice: https://epicenter-nyc.com/lessons-from-jennifer-wu-on-the-meaning-of-justice/ Epicenter-NYC membership: https://epicenter-nyc.com/the-case-for-epicenter-membership-one-auntie-to-another/ Our intro music: http://karavikamusic.com/

Built in 1612, the Bowne House in Flushing was home to generations of abolitionists. It was also a safe space in the Underground Railroad. To preserve the history, Queens residents founded The Bowne House Historical Society in 1945. They bought the house and opened it to the public as a museum. And later this month, we’ll bring Epicenter members in for a tour in partnership with The Underground Railroad Consortium of New York State. URCNYS works to promote the state’s role in the struggle to end slavery. In this episode we talk to URCNYS program manager, Sage Hazarika, about the history and significance of The Browne House. Learn more about URCNYS: https://www.urcnys.org/ The Bowne House Historical Society: https://www.bownehouse.org/ Epicenter-NYC membership: https://epicenter-nyc.com/the-case-for-epicenter-membership-one-auntie-to-another/ Our intro music: http://karavikamusic.com/

New York City based violinists Trina Basu and Arun Ramamurthy met in 2007 and it was love at first sound. They’ve been collaborating ever since. And in January of 2023 the pair released their debut album - Nakshatra. Already, it’s landed on Billboard’s “Classical Crossover Albums” chart and has received high praise from many publications - us included. Epicenter-NYC founder and publisher S. Mitra Kalita talked to Trina and Arun about their backgrounds in music, making it in New York City, and the new album. They’ll also be joined by Epicenter co-founder and creative director Nitin Mukul. Find them on bandcamp! https://basumurthy.bandcamp.com/album/nakshatra Epicenter-NYC membership: https://epicenter-nyc.com/the-case-for-epicenter-membership-one-auntie-to-another/ Our intro music: http://karavikamusic.com/

At Epicenter, we've been struck through our work in Covid at how many Asian seniors are isolated and seemingly shut off from the world. Epicenter’s founder and publisher S. Mitra Kalita talks to World Journal reporter Yiyan Zheng about what she’s learned while writing for the largest Chinese-language newspaper in the United States. Epicenter-NYC membership: https://epicenter-nyc.com/the-case-for-epicenter-membership-one-auntie-to-another/ Our intro music: http://karavikamusic.com/

In December of 2020, New York City began administering the very first Covid-19 vaccines. Since then, we’ve been on the front lines making sure our neighbors get their shots. In fact, thousands of New Yorkers turned to Epicenter staff, volunteers and our partners to get vaccinated.  But we realized we could do more. So, in September of 2021 we set up a pop up vaccination site (in partnership with New York City Test and Trace) in Queens Village - one of the city’s most under-vaccinated neighborhoods.  Now, over a year later our team is still distributing doses to neighbors in need. Today -  Epicenter Editorial Manager, Danielle Hyams, and Queens Village site supervisor, Adriana Proano, look back at the different phases of the pandemic and what we’ve learned along the way. There’s (another) new variant. Here’s what a doctor has to say: https://epicenter-nyc.com/theres-another-new-variant-heres-what-a-doctor-has-to-say/ Epicenter-NYC membership: https://epicenter-nyc.com/the-case-for-epicenter-membership-one-auntie-to-another/ Our intro music: http://karavikamusic.com/

Over the past 8 years Liam Quigley has eaten over 460 slices of pizza across the five boroughs - logging each one on his instagram account NYC Slice. Finally, last week, he shared his findings. A map showing the location of each pizza place and a graph showing the increase in the average price of a slice over time.  Quigley assumed a handful of friends would retweet the results, but he was wrong. It went viral. In this episode Epicenter Editorial Manager Danielle Hyams talks to Quigley about what he’s learned along the way and if we’ve really seen the death of the $1 slice. NYC Slice: https://elkue.com/nyc-slice/ Epicenter-NYC membership: https://epicenter-nyc.com/the-case-for-epicenter-membership-one-auntie-to-another/ Our intro music: http://karavikamusic.com/

Over the weekend New York Mets owner Steve Cohen hosted a “visioning session” at Citi Field. Hundreds of residents gathered to make their voices heard. The goal? To re-imagine the 50 acres surrounding the ballpark. Cohen argues that for too long the space has been nothing more than vacant asphalt and wasted opportunity. Now, he’s asking for community input on the future of the area around Citi Field.  Join the conversation: https://www.queensfuture.com/ Epicenter-NYC membership: https://epicenter-nyc.com/the-case-for-epicenter-membership-one-auntie-to-another/ Our intro music: http://karavikamusic.com/

If you’ve been listening to our podcast or if you read our stories, then you already know we’ve been in touch with award winning actor, April Matthis, since the start of the pandemic.  In June of 2021 Matthis joined us for a conversation about what the closure of theaters across New York City meant for actors. Then, in April of 2022 Matthis told us about her experience starring in the play “Help” with an all- white cast. Now, Matthis is joining us once again to discuss her Broadway debut as Grace in the revival of August Wilson's “The Piano Lesson”.  Get tickets to "The Piano Lesson": https://pianolessonplay.com/tickets/ Join us at Citi Field for a historic opportunity to chart a path forward for the site: https://www.queensfuture.com/ Epicenter-NYC membership: https://epicenter-nyc.com/the-case-for-epicenter-membership-one-auntie-to-another/ Our intro music: http://karavikamusic.com/

Earlier this month Mayor Eric Adams announced a plan to hospitalize unhoused New Yorkers with severe mental illness – involuntarily. The move comes amid a growing homelessness and mental health crisis. But while many New Yorkers are desperate for the city to address these problems, experts think Adams’ approach might do more harm than good.  In this episode we har from Anthony Almojera, a lieutenant paramedic with the FDNY Emergency Medical Service. Almojera is often the first on the scene when someone calls about an “emotionally disturbed person.”  The gaps in Mayor Eric Adams’ controversial new mental health plan: https://epicenter-nyc.com/the-gaps-in-mayor-eric-adams-controversial-new-mental-health-plan/ Riding the Lightning: A Year in the Life of a New York City Paramedic https://www.amazon.com/Riding-Lightning-Year-Life-Paramedic-ebook/dp/B09722GR8D Need help getting an MPV vaccine?: reach out at vaccine@epicenter-nyc.com Epicenter-NYC membership: https://epicenter-nyc.com/the-case-for-epicenter-membership-one-auntie-to-another/ Our intro music: http://karavikamusic.com/

When it came to the midterm results, mainstream media got a lot wrong that local, Black, Brown and BIPOC media got right. And even now, they’re still missing important stories - from big topics like abortion and climate change to garbage pickup or PTA. So why is this happening?  Recently, Epicenter-NYC publisher S. Mitra Kalita joined a roundtable discussion with other BIPOC journalists to answer that question. The discussion was hosted by broadcast journalist Laura Flanders.   BIPOC Media Covered the Elections Differently: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JpeCvn2U52c Need help getting an MPV vaccine?: reach out at vaccine@epicenter-nyc.com Epicenter-NYC membership: https://epicenter-nyc.com/the-case-for-epicenter-membership-one-auntie-to-another/ Our intro music: http://karavikamusic.com/

It’s the holiday season, and we know conversations with family can sometimes be… challenging. Whether it's addressing a longstanding disagreement, bringing up a sensitive topic, or simply trying to express our own thoughts and feelings, these interactions can be difficult and emotionally charged. But with the right approach, they can also be an opportunity to better understand one another. In this episode we hear from journalist Felipe De La Hoz about good ways to handle conversations about issues that New Yorkers face today. Advice for hard holiday conversations: https://epicenter-nyc.com/advice-for-hard-holiday-conversations/ Need help getting an MPV vaccine?: reach out at vaccine@epicenter-nyc.com Epicenter-NYC membership: https://epicenter-nyc.com/the-case-for-epicenter-membership-one-auntie-to-another/ Our intro music: http://karavikamusic.com/

The World Cup has drawn a lot of attention this year, but not for the reasons it usually does. The host nation of Qatar has been accused of human rights abuses connected with the construction of the facilities.  Despite that reality, the purpose of the games has always been to bring people together. And in my experience it has. Almost a year ago some family members and I made the decision to go to the World Cup. We’re a big soccer family and the trip has been a life-long dream – especially for my grandparents who live in Mexico City and haven’t traveled beyond North America until this past week.  Need help getting an MPV vaccine?: reach out at vaccine@epicenter-nyc.com Epicenter-NYC membership: https://epicenter-nyc.com/the-case-for-epicenter-membership-one-auntie-to-another/ Our intro music: http://karavikamusic.com/

Like any year, this year has been challenging for many of our neighbors. We’ve seen a surge in MPV cases, inhumane conditions at Rikers Island, immigrant women in Brooklyn being exploited by their employers. Our neighbors have experienced hate crimes, hunger, and housing insecurity.  But at the same time, we’ve witnessed so many New Yorkers showing up to help one another. Nido de Esperanza is helping new mothers with child care, Da Homeless Hero is pushing for better conditions in shelters, and food pantries are feeding those in need. Every day, we’re thankful to be a part of a city full of people that want to make a difference. Small biz owners tell us what they are thankful for this year: https://epicenter-nyc.com/small-biz-owners-tell-us-what-they-are-thankful-for-this-year/ Need help getting an MPV vaccine?: reach out at vaccine@epicenter-nyc.com Epicenter-NYC membership: https://epicenter-nyc.com/the-case-for-epicenter-membership-one-auntie-to-another/ Our intro music: http://karavikamusic.com/

Division Street and Marcy Avenue meet in Brooklyn’s Williamsburg neighborhood. To some, this intersection is known as La Parada, or “The Stop.” It’s a day laborer hub that attracts undocumented immigrant women looking to find work as housekeepers. But while La Parada is, in a way, a very flexible workplace, the women are easily exploited by their employers.  In this episode we talk to Maria Valdez who leads ‘Liberty Cleaners’, the house cleaners workers’ rights organization within the Workers Justice Project. The women of La Parada: https://epicenter-nyc.com/the-women-of-la-parada/ WJP: http://www.workersjustice.org/ CDC on MPV during pregnancy: https://www.cdc.gov/poxvirus/monkeypox/clinicians/pregnancy.html Need help getting an MPV vaccine?: reach out at vaccine@epicenter-nyc.com Epicenter-NYC membership: https://epicenter-nyc.com/the-case-for-epicenter-membership-one-auntie-to-another/ Our intro music: http://karavikamusic.com/

When Reuben King was growing up on the Caribbean island of Dominica, his family owned a farm that didn’t have electricity. That meant no refrigerator, instead they’d keep water cool and store it in a clay vessel. He didn’t pay much attention to the making of the vessel until fell in love with the art of pottery making. Now, King owns Brooklyn Clay Industries, a teaching studio where people of all ages and skill levels can learn about ceramics.  Small Biz Spotlight: Brooklyn Clay Industries: https://epicenter-nyc.com/small-biz-spotlight-brooklyn-clay-industries/ Brooklyn Clay Industries: https://www.brooklynclayindustries.com/ JYNNEOS FAQ: https://www.nyc.gov/assets/doh/downloads/pdf/monkeypox/jynneos-vaccine-faq.pdf Need help getting an MPV vaccine?: reach out at vaccine@epicenter-nyc.com Epicenter-NYC membership: https://epicenter-nyc.com/the-case-for-epicenter-membership-one-auntie-to-another/ Our intro music: http://karavikamusic.com/

In today's episode Dr. Anthony Fauci, director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases and the chief medical advisor to President Biden, sits down with Jeanne Pinder, founder and CEO of ClearHealthCosts, a partner with Epicenter-NYC in the Vaccine Equity Partner Engagement grant program with the Fund for Public Health of New York City. The two discuss the slow rollout of Covid-19 booster shots. We asked Dr. Anthony Fauci how to fix the slow booster rollout: https://epicenter-nyc.com/qa-with-dr-anthony-fauci/ Need help getting an MPV vaccine?: reach out at vaccine@epicenter-nyc.com Epicenter-NYC membership: https://epicenter-nyc.com/the-case-for-epicenter-membership-one-auntie-to-another/ Our intro music: http://karavikamusic.com/

When many people think of the MAGA movement’s followers, they likely picture rural conservatives in southwestern or Rust Belt states, or maybe New Yorkers on Long Island or upstate, but that’s not necessarily the case. While New York City itself remains a blue bastion, the movement has made inroads. Journalist Felipe De La Hoz, who recently wrote about the rise of MAGA in New York, says that all of this is both puzzling and concerning for New Yorkers who see a rising tide of what seems like a dangerous and aggressive form of anti-democratic thought. In this episode Felipe discusses why we’re seeing this shift. The rise of MAGA in New York: https://epicenter-nyc.com/the-rise-of-maga-in-new-york/ Voting information: https://vote.nyc/ Epicenter-NYC membership: https://epicenter-nyc.com/the-case-for-epicenter-membership-one-auntie-to-another/ Our intro music: http://karavikamusic.com/ MPV Information: https://www1.nyc.gov/site/doh/health/health-topics/monkeypox-when-sick.page

For months now, Texas Governor Greg Abbott has been sending buses of migrants to the city. While the idea of asylum seekers being taken from the border region to destinations in the northeast is not new, the difference now is that this is being done explicitly without coordination. And oftentimes there is little - if any at all - input from the migrants themselves. The city’s initial reaction was to funnel people into shelters. But many say the move is overburdening what was already a system stretched thin. I talk to Shams DaBaron, also known as Da Homeless Hero, about what the shelter system was like prior to the influx of migrants and how it’s changed. Follow Shams DaBaron: www.instagram.com/dahomelesshero Find your local representative: mygovnyc.org/ CDC monkeypox vaccine information: https://www.cdc.gov/poxvirus/monkeypox/interim-considerations/jynneos-vaccine.html Epicenter-NYC membership: https://epicenter-nyc.com/the-case-for-epicenter-membership-one-auntie-to-another/ Our intro music: http://karavikamusic.com/

If you’ve been tuning into our podcast, or reading our newsletter, then you probably already know about the long lines food pantries have been facing as the pandemic wears on. Still today, hundreds of our neighbors continue to line up in search of groceries. It’s mainly thanks to volunteers that they return home with a bag of food. And while the job is fulfilling, it’s hard work. In this episode we talk with two volunteers from food pantries across Queens to learn more about what a typical day looks like for them, what challenges they face, and what they need the most right now. SACSS: https://www.sacssny.org/donate/ ICNA Relief: https://icnarelief.org/product/hunger-prevention/ Queens Community House: https://www.qchnyc.org/donate/make-gift Sign up for Monkeypox text message updates: https://joinsubtext.com/epicenter-nychttps://joinsubtext.com/epicenter-nyc Epicenter-NYC membership: https://epicenter-nyc.com/the-case-for-epicenter-membership-one-auntie-to-another/ Our intro music: http://karavikamusic.com/

Epicenter-NYC and UBS recently hosted a panel on the next generation of Asian-American entrepreneurship. Discussions centered around creating and planning for generational wealth. Panelists included Anjula Acharia, the CEO of A-series Investments and Management, Lucy Yu, the owner of Yu and Me Books, Anshu Prasad, the CEO and Co-Founder of Leaf Logistics, and Sean Ro, the Co-Founder of Lunar Seltzer. The conversation was organized and moderated by USB’s Bianca Benedetti-Fang, and Epicenter NYC’s S. Mitra Kalita. Anjula Acharia: https://twitter.com/anjulaacharia Lucy Yu/Yu and Me Books: https://www.yuandmebooks.com/ Anshu Prasad/Leaf Logistics: https://leaflogistics.com/ Sean Ro/Lunar Seltzer: https://www.drinklunar.com/ CDC monkeypox vaccine information: https://www.cdc.gov/poxvirus/monkeypox/interim-considerations/jynneos-vaccine.html Sign up for Monkeypox text message updates: https://joinsubtext.com/epicenter-nychttps://joinsubtext.com/epicenter-nyc Epicenter-NYC membership: https://epicenter-nyc.com/the-case-for-epicenter-membership-one-auntie-to-another/ Our intro music: http://karavikamusic.com/

Many of our neighbors have family members and friends who are currently living in Pakistan. In fact, New York City is home to more Pakistanis than any other city in the country. And while it’s already difficult to be far from your loved ones, this summer made that distance more painful than ever.  By now, over 30 million people have been affected by the monsoon, which began in June of 2022. More than one-third of Pakistan is under water. And while the flooding has largely dropped from the newscycle, the need for help has only grown. In this episode we hear from Mohammad Saif Ullah, the owner of Dera, a Pakistani restaurant in Jackson Heights, and Kanwar Ahmed of the Pakistan American Youth Organization. Dera Restaurant: https://www.facebook.com/DeraRestaurantIncJacksonHieghts/ PAYO: https://payousa.org/aboutas/ Roshan Flood Relief Committee:https://www.roshantravel.com.pk/roshan-relief-foundation/ NYPD Muslim Society: https://z-upload.facebook.com/NYPDMuslim/posts/2593681820764160 New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene: https://www1.nyc.gov/site/doh/health/health-topics/monkeypox.page Sign up for Monkeypox text message updates: https://joinsubtext.com/epicenter-nyc Epicenter-NYC membership: https://epicenter-nyc.com/the-case-for-epicenter-membership-one-auntie-to-another/ Our intro music: http://karavikamusic.com/

New York City is home to some of the top ballet companies in the world. But even the city’s most popular productions like “The Nutcracker” are steeped in racial stereotypes. Now, dancers, choreographers, journalists, and activists alike are working together to challenge offensive roles and push a centuries-old art form into the modern era. The documentary titled “Beyond Yellowface” will explore this issue. The film follows two NYC dancers of Asian descent and co-founders of the Final Bow for Yellowface movement. In this episode we speak to dancer, choreographer and activist Phil Chan, as well as “Beyond Yellowface” Director and Producer, Jennifer Lin. Contribute to "Beyond Yellowface": https://www.beyondyellowface.com/ Follow them on social media: https://www.instagram.com/beyondyellowface/, https://www.facebook.com/BeyondYellowface/, https://twitter.com/yellowface_film New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene: https://www1.nyc.gov/site/doh/health/health-topics/monkeypox.page Vaccine Intake Form: https://airtable.com/shrcyXdRya5zPelKx Contact us for help: vaccine@epicenter-nyc.com or (917) 818-2690 Epicenter-NYC membership: https://epicenter-nyc.com/the-case-for-epicenter-membership-one-auntie-to-another/ Our intro music: http://karavikamusic.com/

Throughout the pandemic we’ve witnessed a surge in food insecurity and long lines at pantries across the city. At the same time pantries have struggled to keep up with the demand, and in some cases, have been forced to turn people away.That includes the few pantries that supply Halal food. And as Halal food pantries fail to get the support they need to continue operating like they used to, our neighbors in need are finding it particularly difficult to secure food they can eat. In this episode we speak to Hanna Sheikh, Maia Dillane, and Adriana Curto at the Arab-American Family Support Center. We also speak to Ishaq Alpar, the Director of Support Services at ICNA Relief. Arab-American Family Support Center: https://www.aafscny.org/ ICNA Relief: https://icnarelief.org/ New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene: https://www1.nyc.gov/site/doh/health/health-topics/monkeypox.page Vaccine Intake Form: https://airtable.com/shrcyXdRya5zPelKx Contact us for help:  vaccine@epicenter-nyc.com or (917) 818-2690 Epicenter-NYC membership: https://epicenter-nyc.com/the-case-for-epicenter-membership-one-auntie-to-another/ Our intro music: http://karavikamusic.com/

Not everyone can say they had a first job like Abou Sow. At 11 years old, he began working at his uncle’s slaughterhouse in Jamaica, Queens. It was there he learned how to slaughter animals according to halal standards. The 26 year old has now opened up his own butcher shop called Prince Abou’s Butchery. But Prince Abou’s Butchery wasn’t always a brick and mortar shop. Sow began the business in a classically millennial way: selling his products through Instagram. Beginning In January 2020, people would order fresh meat via Instagram DM and Sow would deliver. Then, in August 2021, he signed a lease and one year later opened his own space.  Prince Abou’s Butchery is a cut above the rest: https://epicenter-nyc.com/small-biz-spotlight-prince-abous-butchery-is-a-cut-above-the-rest/ New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene: https://www1.nyc.gov/site/doh/health/health-topics/monkeypox.page NYC Vaccine Finder: https://vaccinefinder.nyc.gov/ Contact us for help:  vaccine@epicenter-nyc.com or (917) 818-2690 Epicenter-NYC membership: https://epicenter-nyc.com/the-case-for-epicenter-membership-one-auntie-to-another/ Our intro music: http://karavikamusic.com/

Summer is coming to an end and students are getting ready to head back into the classrooms once again. But this year will start out differently. Covid precautions like masks, in-school PCR surveillance testing, and daily health screeners are no longer required. To many New Yorkers, it seems like things are back to normal. But are they really? In this episode Epicenter’s Mitra Kalita speaks with NPR education reporter, Anya Kamenetz, about her new book “The Stolen Year”. “The Stolen Year” examines how Covid changed children’s lives, and where we go from here. Buy "The Stolen Year": www.anyakamenetz.net/ Sign up for The Unmuted: https://pico.link/theunmuted/login/enter-email?id=LoginWizard_theunmuted New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene: https://www1.nyc.gov/site/doh/health/health-topics/monkeypox.page Epicenter-NYC membership: https://epicenter-nyc.com/the-case-for-epicenter-membership-one-auntie-to-another/ Our intro music: http://karavikamusic.com/

In early 2021 Covid-19 vaccines had finally reached New York CIty. But later, as vaccine mandates came into play, the debate on whether to vaccinate became increasingly polarizing. Still, there wasn’t enough being done to help people understand the range of perspectives. The creators of “Bring it to the People” wanted to change that. “Bring it to the People” is a documentary that underscores the complex issues that are preventing vaccination such as historical medical mistreatment, stigma, health literacy, and much more. And like we do at Epicenter, the film dives into communities within New York City that are underrepresented in the media. Today we speak with with Director Luis Palomino Benítez, and Producer Dr. Harlem Gunness. Stream "Bring it to the People": https://www.eventbrite.com/e/virtual-debut-documentary-bring-it-to-the-people-tickets-401309496507 Trailer: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=e7rUgQ2hLQ4 Epicenter-NYC membership: https://epicenter-nyc.com/the-case-for-epicenter-membership-one-auntie-to-another/ Our intro music: http://karavikamusic.com/

This week, New York City voters can participate in the second round of primary elections. Typically, there’s only one primary that happens in late June, but this year is different. In April, a New York appeals court ruled that the new congressional district lines were drawn with partisan intent. The decision prompted a redrawing of the maps. That pushed primaries for Congress and State Senate to August.  Voter turnout in New York City primary elections is normally very low, and the June 28th election was no exception. But now, with added confusion, experts worry that turnout for the second primary will be even worse. In this episode we're joined by to Ali Najmi, a leading election law attorney in New York on why it's so important to get to the polls. Find out where to vote: voterlookup.elections.ny.gov/ Ali Najmi: https://www.najmilaw.com/ Epicenter-NYC membership: https://epicenter-nyc.com/the-case-for-epicenter-membership-one-auntie-to-another/ Our intro music: http://karavikamusic.com/

On May 20th New York City confirmed its first case of monkeypox. And by the end of July the virus had spread enough that the city declared a public health emergency.  The good news is there’s a monkeypox vaccine. But can the city distribute fast enough and fairly? In this episodeEpicenter’s Editorial Director, Danielle Hyams, talks to journalist Katherine Tam. Katherine has been working hard to make monkeypox vaccine appointments for those in need.  "Monkeypox Info. & Appt. Help" Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/mpxvax Request an appointment: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdyCED9N2SrOUufA9hfVs3qB688_BLopKdnlw0sfUGZwl3n9w/viewform?fbzx=911391871896330485 Epicenter-NYC monkeypox update: https://epicenter-nyc.com/monkeypox-update/ Epicenter-NYC membership: https://epicenter-nyc.com/the-case-for-epicenter-membership-one-auntie-to-another/ Our intro music: http://karavikamusic.com/

Since the start of the pandemic we’ve witnessed food insecurity become increasingly prevalent across New York City. Over the past few months alone we’ve reported on rising food prices, struggling soup kitchens, and food pantries that are so overwhelmed they’re turning people away for the first time ever. And just like the devastating effects of Covid-19, seniors in our community are some of the most vulnerable.  In this episode we hear from three community leaders, Zani Simmons, Mary Archana Fernandez and Helen Ahn, about the challenges seniors have been facing while trying to access food. South Asian Council for Social Services: https://www.sacssny.org/ QCH, Pomonok Community Center Food Pantry: https://www.qchnyc.org/ Korean Community Center: https://kcsny.org/ Epicenter-NYC membership: https://epicenter-nyc.com/the-case-for-epicenter-membership-one-auntie-to-another/ Our intro music: http://karavikamusic.com/

The New York City Housing Authority, or NYCHA, provides public housing across New York City. Today, more than 500,000 people live in NYCHA's public housing developments. And while these apartments may be less expensive than other housing options in New York City, residents argue that living conditions are poor, and repairs are often slow or non-existent. Some say the solution to these problems is privatization. So in 2016 NYCHA began leasing their apartments to private companies in exchange for funding as a part of their Permanent Affordability Commitment Together, or “PACT” program. And last month, Governor Kathy Hochul took another step towards privatization when she signed new legislation establishing the NYC Public Housing Preservation Trust.  But NYCHA residents are concerned. Will these changes lead to evictions and less accountability? In this episode we talk to Epicenter Intern Angelina Nelson who has been a NYCHA resident for 20 years. On July 14th she joined her neighbors to protest the privatization of their homes. The United Front Against Displacement: https://theunitedfrontagainstdisplacement.org/ Epicenter-NYC membership: https://epicenter-nyc.com/the-case-for-epicenter-membership-one-auntie-to-another/ Our intro music: http://karavikamusic.com/

New Yorkers walking down the street are likely unaware that they are being surveilled. It’s part of the trade-off that we’ve made as a society – a persistent monitoring in exchange for a sense of security and convenience. The NYPD has a small arsenal of powerful surveillance tools, tools that, until the City Council passed the Public Oversight of Surveillance Technology Act in 2020, it could purchase and deploy in total secrecy. And while these technologies might help the police more quickly identify suspects of violent crimes, they’re a double-edged sword. In this episode we talk to politics journalist Felipe De La Hoz about what he found during his reporting on this story.  Felipe's full story: https://epicenter-nyc.com/the-rise-of-surveillance-in-new-york-city/ Epicenter-NYC membership: https://epicenter-nyc.com/the-case-for-epicenter-membership-one-auntie-to-another/ Our intro music: http://karavikamusic.com/

Queens has long been the home of prominent jazz musicians, like Louis Armstrong and Ella Fitzgerald. And Flushing Town Hall, which is a Smithsonian Institution affiliate dedicated to presenting global arts programming, is making sure New Yorkers remember these legends by hosting monthly jazz jams. The series has been promoting jazz in Queens for decades and this month the public is invited to the 2nd annual Jazz Jam All-Stars Concert. Jazz Jam is a gathering of musicians whose sole purpose is to jam out together; age and skill level don’t matter. We hear from a few of our neighbors who are participating including musicians Ezra Kessler, Mimi Block, and band leader Carol Sudhalter.  Flushing Town Hall keeps jazz alive: https://epicenter-nyc.com/flushing-town-hall-keeps-jazz-alive/ Tickets: https://www.flushingtownhall.org/jazz-jam-all-stars-2022 Livestream: https://www.youtube.com/user/FlushingTownHall Epicenter-NYC membership: https://epicenter-nyc.com/the-case-for-epicenter-membership-one-auntie-to-another/ Our intro music: http://karavikamusic.com/

Unless you grew up in one of the five boroughs of New York City, you probably have no idea of the challenges involved in getting into public high school. For many students, the process begins years in advance. And not unlike applying to college, kids and families consider a variety of schools. Some of those schools require an exam, while others require an interview or portfolio. This complicated process has left the most disadvantaged students behind.  That’s why, just before leaving office, former mayor Bill de Blasio passed legislation to change the application process with the goal of making top schools like these more accessible. In this episode Epicenter’s Mitra Kalita speaks with Natasha Warikoo about her new book titled “Race at the Top: Asian Americans and Whites in Pursuit of the American Dream in Suburban Schools”. The book explores competition in suburban high schools with growing numbers of Asian Americans.  Natasha Warikoo: https://natashawarikoo.com/ Sign up for The Unmuted: https://trypico.com/theunmuted Epicenter-NYC membership: https://epicenter-nyc.com/the-case-for-epicenter-membership-one-auntie-to-another/ Our intro music: http://karavikamusic.com/

At the pandemic’s peak, thousands of New Yorkers got help from local food pantries. You probably remember seeing photos of hundreds of our neighbors standing in line with empty carts and bags. But now, two years later, the situation isn’t all that different. While the photos may be less frequent, it doesn’t mean the lines are any shorter. And beyond that, food pantries are struggling to help the many New Yorkers in need amid rising food prices. Some have even been forced to turn people away. Today we talk to Thomas Neve, the founder of Reaching Out Community Services, and Mary Holzman-Tweed, a volunteer at the Astoria Food Pantry — about how they are dealing with rising food prices and supply issues, and how New Yorkers can help their neighbors in need. Read more: https://epicenter-nyc.com/new-york-city-food-banks-struggle-meet-rising-demand/ Reaching Out Community Services: https://rcsprograms.org/ Astoria Food Pantry: https://www.astoriafoodpantry.com/ Epicenter-NYC membership: https://epicenter-nyc.com/the-case-for-epicenter-membership-one-auntie-to-another/ Our intro music: http://karavikamusic.com/

In mid-June, the FDA granted emergency use authorization to Pfizer and Moderna’s COVID-19 vaccine for children ages 6 months to 5 years old. In New York City, the vaccines will become available as early as the start of next week. But while some parents have been counting the days, others have questions: What if my child already had COVID-19? How effective is the vaccine for kids versus adults? And what about additional doses? In this episode Epicenter NYC’s Mitra Kalita talks to Dr. Mark Horowitz, a family doctor in Lower Manhattan, about what parents should consider when making the decision to vaccinate their children.  Vaccine Help: https://epicenter-nyc.com/vaccine-help/ Epicenter-NYC membership: https://epicenter-nyc.com/the-case-for-epicenter-membership-one-auntie-to-another/ Our intro music: http://karavikamusic.com/