Washington Heights: Pluralism, Poverty and Providence

Karen moved to Washington Heights from Philadelphia in the late 1980’s.

It was a neighborhood in transition. Into the 1970’s, the community was a mix of Black and Jewish immigrant middle class. During New York City’s fiscal crisis, much of the long-established middle class moved out. The introduction of crack cocaine brought desperation and rampant crime.

With the neighborhood in decline and neglected, it became a classic “under resourced” community.

As an emerging artist, Karen immersed herself in her community, documenting the residents and the challenges they faced.

She was just another neighbor, but with a camera -- to document, to celebrate, to witness.