New York's frenetic and sometimes zany street life makes living here a unique and rich experience. As we have seen vividly over the past year, streets and public spaces are also places of danger and intimidation for too many Americans. I am proud that Groundswell's youth painted two murals this summer that address these problems head-on.

In one of these, seventeen-year-old Violet Ponce and 20 co-muralists advocated for women's safety in public space. Respect is the Strongest Compliment calls out street harassment and the ways that it perpetuates inequality and gender-based violence.

The mural was unsettling for many who saw it. While the team was painting, some passers-by challenged the mural's confrontational imagery. Violet observed, "This intensive process of engaging with the public made me an ambassador for women's safety. I educated community members and in the process was empowered to create dialogue on the issue."

Groundswell's achievements are measured in moments like these. As we look to another year of using art as a tool for social change, your gift to Groundswell will help create opportunities for people like Violet to use their voices and artistry to advocate for a more just and equitable world. Your support today is gratefully appreciated.

Many thanks,

Rob Krulak

Interim Executive Director

P.S. This summer legendary street photographer Martha Cooper stopped by the mural to document and photograph the youth artists at work. 

On Giving Tuesday, donate to Groundswell and enter to win a signed, photograph  of this mural by Martha Cooper.