If 2016 has taught us anything thus far, it's that spaces for marginalized and minority communities to safely gather is essential. Brooklyn-based entrepreneurs Sandra Hong and Melissa Wong understand the importance of this social unity and have since created New Women Space (NWS).
"New Women Space is a place for women of all experiences," Hong tells Out. "We want this space to accurately reflect the rich and beautiful difference that the women of this city represent. Straight, trans, queer-identified women of all ages, backgrounds, and stories are encouraged to come forward and help us define what New Women Space should feel like. It's time we radically expanded the notion of what feminism means, how it will be defined for future generations, and we can't wait to see how we will co-create this together."
NWS' inaugural townhall
NWS' mission statement is simple but imperative: "To hold space for cultivating our city's women-led initiatives and to support the needs of her personal and professional pursuits."
The community center is currently renovating a space in Brooklyn at the intersection of Greenpoint and Williamsburg. The multi-level location features a sun-lit first floor that will primarily serve as a co-working space decorated with local art and goods available for purchase. Yoga, meditation, panels, and screenings will take place on the basement level.
In addition to events, NWS will offer various workshops, including classes on financial planning, marketing and awareness, wellness and health, business start-ups, and professional developments.
NWS is seeking to raise $15,000 to complete renovations. "We will certainly be putting our Kickstarter funds toward the renovation of our space, and any remaining funds will go toward our programming budget," reads the Kickstarter page, which is nearing the $10,000 mark.
Help create an accessible space for every kind of woman. Watch the Kickstarter video below and consider donating to NWS here:
