Dream Street Park

A reminder of times past, but not forgotten, this garden is the sacred ground of Ezili, a powerful protector and avenger goddess rooted in the Haitian and Caribbean cultures. A bright red heart appears melted on the gate. Community elders say it represents Ezili’s veve, a sacred symbol identifying her presence. Some say that the grounds were once used for performing rituals. Others insist the heart is a symbol of love, and that the rest are just silly tales. I realize the overgrown path is also shaped like a heart. Coincidence?

225 E. 124th Street, between 3rd & 2nd Avenues

World mural, 1995

Hand-painted Frankenstein figure created by neighborhood children to scare away gangs and drug addicts

Heart-shaped entrance gate

Cut-out figure created by community children