Voices Stories from Downtown Express
Squadron forum tackles post-marriage gay agenda
A recent panel held in Lower Manhattan concluded that gay rights activists must remain vigilant despite New York State legalization of gay marriages. During the discussion, which was led by State Senator Daniel Squadron, panelists agreed that they must continue to fight discrimination against lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender people. For original click here more>
Trying to reclaim Kim Lau Square
Local organizations are coming up with ways to transform Kim Lau Square into a more user-friendly park. Residents say the park has attracted so many cyclists and skateboarders that it has become a danger zone for the elderly and out-of-towners. more>
Tenants in Chinatown building forced to vacate
Zhao Xun Zhang in his apartment at 35 Market St. that he recently had to vacate following an inspection by the DOB.
Fifty tenants of low-income apartments in Chinatown were locked out of their apartments – which had been illegally subdivided to reduce rent shares – after being cited for fire code violations. The residents are being forced to seek temporary shelter, and may not be able to afford their rent once the building is reopened.
Pier A plans stir controversy
Some Downtown residents are hoping the restaurant planned for Pier A in Battery Park is scrapped and that the historic building is instead turned into a museum honoring Italian-Americans. (Photo: Aline Reynolds)
Italian-American activists, Community Board 1, and other residents are arguing that pier A should house a museum honoring the heritage of Italian Americans and their role in shaping New York City, instead of an upscale restaurant.
Stringer, others save immigrant from deportation
Mohammed Azam and Borough of Manhattan President Scott Stringer, who helped Azam bring an end to an eight-year federal campaign to deport him. (Photo: Terese Loeb Kreuzer)
Mohammed Azam, who came to this country as a nine year old, who has no criminal record, and who worked his own way through college faced eight years of deportation proceedings before Manhattan Borough President Scott Stringer and 20 other elected officials intervened on his behalf.
