New York’s densely occupied Lower East Side provided the energizing cauldron for the creation of Settlement Houses, whose goals were based on furthering the cause of social justice. What made them so unique was that despite being located in the struggling immigrant neighborhoods they served, progressive individuals consciously chose to live in them to be immersed in the lives of the population they aimed to help. These institutions, which eventually appeared across the US, provided both education and aspiration for the residents and ultimately the entire country. They were instrumental in creating the first public playground in the United States; Public Nurses in American schools; improved housing; and even the creation of such organizations as the NAACP. The diverse opportunities offered by these Settlement Houses ranged from cooking, athletics, language classes, and art and music programs to political engagement and cultural endeavors. The social activism of these Settlement Houses led to the creation of benefits that would become the hallmarks and legacies (and some would say rights) of today’s America.
Along the way, we’ll discuss such noted individuals as Felix Adler, Arnold Toynbee, Lillian Wald, Jacob Schiff, W.E.B. DuBois, Belle Moskowitz (described in her New York Time obituary as “the most powerful woman in United States politics”), and even the rags-to-riches story of Rose Pastor Stokes, made famous in Anzia Yezierska’s beloved book and the popular movie, “Salome of the Tenements.”
Presenting this informative talk will be Justin Ferate, who was honored as New York’s “Most Engaging Tour Guide” by New York State Governor George Pataki and the New York State Tourism Council. Mr. Ferate also wrote the official New York City Professional Tour Guide Licensing Examination for the City of New York. The AAA Guide to New York selected the Grand Central Terminal tour offered by Mr. Ferate as “New York’s Best Walking Tour!” Time Out New York selected Mr. Ferate as “One of New York’s 50 Essential Secrets!”