CommUNITY

When I was younger, I would go to church just to see my friends and eat good food. I  loved it when the Pastor let me come before the congregation and present to them my all A’s report card. The murmurs of approval from this community filled me with pride. Once a week coming together as a community to celebrate accomplishments, explore new beginnings, and support one another through anything. This is what church meant to me. Though I’ve always struggled with my beliefs, the community within religious spaces has always drawn me back in. 

Like myself, many people struggle to connect to religion because of the judgment that is intertwined in many religious structures.

Being in college has shown me that community is the most important part of human life, especially when you're far from home or in a transition period. In NYC, there are so many types of people that finding your community is simple, although it may feel overwhelming. So, how have I found community in NYC?

I tried just about everything. The most random things I did were go to a million yoga classes and invite random people I met in elevators (who are now my closest friends), participate in random arts and crafts activities at my university, and join this magazine. It doesn't matter what pushes you; there are so many opportunities to connect. If you want to be in a community with people who understand,  you should explore the clubs your school has. A club that I joined in high school and college because of my desire to make a community was the Black Student Union.

There are many students like me in that club, and when we come together to discuss topics that only we can understand, it makes me feel heard and seen. Knowing that I have the support of these individuals pushes me to do better in all parts of my life. These clubs are also made up of people of multiple denominations, but we’re still able to come together and celebrate one another through our shared experiences. If you want to connect with your faith, research churches in your area and show up. Putting yourself out there is the best way to build community. 

So, whether you find community in a religious space or somewhere else, there’s community all around you. No matter who you are and what your background is, NYC is a place where you’re allowed to express that and interact with other individuals who appreciate what makes you unique.