On Thursday, I took off for the day to visit the UN building. Although I forgot my camera, it was a great experience and one I will remember. (And because I live here now, I can go back anytime and take pictures.)
The is a great photo exhibit in the lobby that portrays what is going on in different places around the world: the wars, the bloodshed, etc. The exhibit is quite graphic and many people stood in front of one picture at a time for a very long period of time in deep thought.
One exhibit, called body mapping particularly caught my eye. Women with HIV from around the world, but mainly Africa, participated in this workshop where they created “body maps” via artistic expression theat helped them begin the process of coming to terms with the reality of HIV and any discrimination or stigma that they have experienced.
I actually loved the idea and I am going to modify it and open my year with it this year in Spanish Harlem. Students will be creating body maps using words, symbols, and pictures that portray influences in their lives that have shaped them into who they are today. These influences should depict both the negative and the positive aspects, as well as hobbies, health, and life goals. I think it will be a great way to get to know the kids!