DA Seeks to "Heal" NYC Through Art Amid Drug Crisis in Washington Square Park
This week, Manhattan’s District Attorney showcased his artistic flair at Washington Square Park as part of an unconventional initiative aimed at "healing" the city, despite being surrounded by individuals struggling with addiction.
DA Alvin Bragg was seen with a paintbrush, engrossed in creating a watercolor piece during his "art of healing" workshop series held in July.
The choice of the park’s notorious northwest corner was deliberate, as this area has deteriorated into a hub for drug activity, evidenced by discarded syringes and individuals openly using drugs on park benches.
"We aim to reclaim the park for residents and visitors to engage in activities like art and music, promoting a positive atmosphere," Bragg stated.
He emphasized that selecting this particular section was purposeful, acknowledging its ongoing challenges. Bragg, accompanied by a small group, interacted with local community members for about an hour during the event.
The DA’s office has been organizing these taxpayer-funded art workshops annually, previously focusing on issues such as gun violence.
Local resident Trevor Sumner, who serves as president of the Washington Square Association, expressed his frustration, stating, "This initiative is utterly absurd. The same person responsible for the widespread drug use, mental health issues, and violence here is pretending the neighborhood’s problems don’t exist. It’s infuriating."
Shortly before Bragg began his painting session, a stark representation of the city’s drug issue was unfolding just a few feet away.
In an effort to clear the park of its troubled elements, police were seen attempting to aid a person who appeared unresponsive on a bench. Meanwhile, employees from the Drug Policy Alliance, a nonprofit, were discreetly distributing free syringes to individuals in need.
These syringes are part of "harm reduction kits" promoted by the $13 million organization, which is known for advocating progressive drug policies. The kits include essential drug paraphernalia such as syringes, alcohol pads, cotton balls, tourniquets, and cookers, according to the alliance.
The duration of the nonprofit’s activities in this park section, which is known for rampant drug use, remains unclear.
The Drug Policy Alliance, backed significantly by billionaire philanthropist George Soros, has been a prominent player in drug reform advocacy and is funded by his family foundation.
While the organization’s philosophy emphasizes "meeting people where they are," they declined to comment further when approached.
Critics argue that harm reduction strategies, which enable drug use rather than encourage cessation, undermine efforts to assist users in seeking help.
According to Charles Fane Lehmann from the Manhattan Institute, "The prevailing mindset suggests that individuals should pursue treatment solely when they are ready. However, many users remain addicted throughout their lives and perceive initiatives aimed at getting them treated as contrary to their interests."
The NYPD’s Sixth Precinct continues to crack down on a handful of dealers who frequent the park, but many are quickly released after their arrests.
Amid ongoing drug activity, NYPD officers reiterated their commitment to maintaining safety in the area, stating, "No one should feel at ease selling drugs in Washington Square Park."
So far this year, the precinct has recorded 471 narcotics arrests, marking a 68% increase compared to the last year, according to police statistics.
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