Join us for an outdoor walking tour of Gowanus, a community that includes public housing, brownstones, and increasingly new development along one of the most polluted bodies of water in America. This tour explores the history of environmental degradation in Gowanus and the emerging movement for housing and environmental justice along the canal, led by local organizers with the Gowanus Neighborhood Coalition for Justice (GNCJ) who fought to ensure an equitable rezoning of the neighborhood in 2021.

This tour will be led by Michelle de la Uz (Executive Director) and Sarah Batchu (Director of Programs) of the Fifth Avenue Committee, a 46-year-old comprehensive community development corporation (and GNCJ member institution) with a mission to advance economic, social, and racial justice in New York City through integrated, community-centered affordable housing, grassroots organizing, policy advocacy, and transformative education, training, and services that build the power to shape our community’s future.

ADA accessible bathrooms and water fountains are available at 621 Degraw Street at the start and end of the tour. Tour will be outdoors on sidewalks and often on uneven terrain. Wear comfortable walking shoes and comfortable clothing you can move in, and bring your own water bottle. Additional accommodation requests can be sent to [email protected] by Friday, October 11th.

Looking for a place to grab a bite or a drink while you’re exploring? Check out The Infatuation’s top Gowanus picks.