Since the start of July, 2024, I’ve been documenting the protests against building the homeless shelter at 25th Avenue and 86th Street (Bensonhurst, Brooklyn). I’ve been showing up on a regular basis, and I’ve been able to connect with the people there. Sometimes, I would be offered water, herbal tea (‘lerng cha’ in Chinese), and other foods that have been donated by the local businesses.

Most of the protesters are the Asian/Chinese, retired and elderly (our grandmothers, grandfathers) and middle-aged people (aunties and uncles). The ‘regulars’ show up every day because they are concerned about their living situation as well as how the shelter would impact younger generations.

My parents and grandparents immigrated to the US from China in the 70’s, hoping that their children and future generations will have a better life than what they had in the village. They spent most of their days working (10-12 hr days, 6-7 days a week) as seamstresses and cooks while my brother, cousins and I went to school. They also prepare our meals.

Being at the protests this summer, I have a similar feeling whereby our elders continue to show up for us (rain or shine), so we would have a chance of a safe, healthy living life.

I will continue to show up and document as it happens.