Subject to Inspection: Brooklyn Spaces and Issues
First, the Big Picture
We are facing an unprecedented period of uncertainty and doubt in Brooklyn. A global pandemic, a rise in crime, a loss of economic activity, the laying bare of racial injustice. On the whole a disturbing crisis of leadership at all levels of government.
The next six months are perhaps the most critical time period in the modern history of Brooklyn, as the political primaries that will largely shape our future will be decided in June. And a focus on the major opportunities, and often overlooked neighborhood narratives that should inform the political process, will be the focus of the editorial staff in this column in the coming months.
As the Borough navigates the unintended consequences of past success including the affordability of housing and the broadening of benefits to reach those that have been left behind, as well as the mind boggling challenges ahead of us in rebuilding our neighborhoods post-pandemic and the very real impending budget crisis that will likely take years to weather, there will be no single solution. Instead we should draw on the endemic spirits of entrepreneurship, creativity, and social justice that are intrinsic to the DNA of Brooklyn, and develop the most progressive solutions in NYC and beyond for the challenges that lay ahead.
For years now Brooklyn has been leading the way in shaping the culture and intellect of New York City. It’s important to recognize this responsibility and duty in this moment in time.