The Bridge Multicultural Project Celebrated a Year of Great Achievements in Arts & Culture
On Sunday, December 20th, 2015 the Bridge Multicultural and Advocacy Project celebrated a year of major accomplishments. Last year the founder Mr. Mark Meyer Appel introduced the community to the mission and vision of the Bridge Project to unite the multi-cultural community of Brooklyn.
On the day when members of the Police Department were remembering Officers Liu and Ramos The Bridge MCP honored the 63rd Police Precient for their continued commitment to “The Bridge MCP” and the children they serve. Though New York and the Country seems to be experiencing unrest and cultural divide the Bridge Project brought light to the Brooklyn multicultural community last night. The celebration began with festivities and music from international and culturally inspired food representing, Caribbean, Middle Eastern, Kosher Cuisine and Wine Bar. Director of Cultural Affairs, Ms. Dorinda Angelucci welcomed and greeted the guest. She introduced International Singer Maayan Shaked and The Jazz by Don Chapman band. Ms. Felina Backer, Founder of MIPO wooed the audience by singing the National Anthem. Mr. Mark Meyer Appel/Founder/Chairman, acknowledged and awarded Brooklyn Borough President Hon. Eric Adams with the “Unity Award for his tireless commitment to unite the diverse community of Brooklyn. Mr. Matt Jamison, founder and music director of the Feed Your Mind Children’s’ Choir played a selection of music and Christmas carol. Public Advocate Latishia James presented The 63rd Police Prescient Captain Thomas Burke & Community Affairs Police Officers Benjamin & McGlyn with the “Distinguished Guardianship Award.” Mr. Mark Meyer Appel presented New York City 45th Council District member Hon. Jamane D. Williams with the “Distinguished Leadership Award.” Assemblywoman Rodneyse Bichotte presented Ms. Margarette Tropnas with the “Friends of The Bridge Award.” Councilman Matthew Eugene presented Katherine Khatari, Bazah Roohi, Hafida Torres and “Friends of The Bridge Award.” Senator Jessie Hamilton presented David Spira Nyrrt with the “Safety Award” and Mr. Aron Greenstein with the “Youth Leadership Award.”
Mr. Mark Meyer Appel, founder of The Bridge Project Arts and Cultural Center shared how he and the Bridge team moved the organization from standing in the fire-ravaged building amidst the rubble and launched the construction of “The Bridge MCP” by visualizing a facility that would serve the community. “Where all religions and races can come together and work together to create a central point where we can address the problems of society, and become the model for inclusion and collective advocacy. This holiday party celebrates our organizational partners, community, volunteers and staff.” Two years later the organization proudly celebrates the year of great accomplishments and the many partners who made the year a momentous year:
- Hosted the New York City Police Department (NYPD Explorers group)
- Organizing a coalition of 25 faith leaders representing the Islam, Jewish and Christian communities
- Conducting interfaith and cultural awareness workshops
- Formulating and shared the “voice of hope” message.
- Partnering with Feed your Mind & Music a local not-for-project under the leadership of Mr. Matt James, Executive Director to provide free music and computer lessons to over 30 children ages 3 – 16 years served.
- Working with Jewish schools (Israel for Arts) and the local police departments to introduce public schools children to the Bomb Shelter Art Project.
- Hosting music, arts, history and educational programs to the Jewish, Islam and Christian communities.
He thanked the many partners including; The New York Police Department, New York City Board of Education, Jewish Community Relations Council, Feed Your Mind and Music, The Caribbean-American Theater, The Moroccan-American Council to Empower Women, The Art of War Exhibit, Artists 4 Israel, Midwood Development Corporation, Cultural Workshops and many local artists and community based institutions. He also thanked National Friends of “The Bridge MCP” including; The American-Jewish Congress, Anti-Defamation League, Albany and Washington who have come alongside the organization.
The center is conveniently located at 1894 Flatbush Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11210. They are committed to creating a safe environment, which fosters intercultural awareness through the Arts, Music and History. The center is dedicated to creating the atmosphere that can encourage and nurture growth and development by including educational tools that stimulates critical thinking and problem solving skills for families.
For additional information, call 718-692-2222 or info.thebridgemcp@gmail.com.