My idea for this garden is simple: provide space for growth and community through living things and various activities.
My name is Kiani Conley-Wilson. I have wanted to starting an Urban Garden for years now. I have been inspired by my non-profit work as a volunteer, intern, and professional to set up on this journey that my heart has been calling to me.
My studies at RPI at Sustainability Studies in RPI’s STS (Science and Technology Studies) Department and the School for Field Studies have shaped me in various ways. I have had professors who are Anthropologist, Sociologist, Biologist, Environmental Scientists, Aid Volunteers, and other sciences. Their teachings taught me to seriously consider the impact of actions by gather evidence and connecting with outs while trusting your instincts and what passion you have in your heart. This balance of thinking has compelled me to do something for the community, learn from mistakes, take a look at what is working, and so much more.
In addition to my academic life, I have studied with various organizations in and outside of Troy. In March of 2018, I completed the Urban Farming Institute’s 9 week program. In August of 2019 I will be participating in Soul Fire Farm Institute’s BIPOC Program.
I am seeking out spaces to be reclaimed for community use. Although I am a transplant of Troy, these spaces are not just for me, but for those who have not gotten the opportunity to do something they like.
Purpose
There is a disconnect between the long term residents of Troy and the individuals passing through. There is a disconnect between the non-profits trying to engage and help with the community and the long term residents of Troy. Although I see these programs having success it is not getting to their target audience and I want to change this. I want to deconstruct the power structures of these kinds of aid programs and use my free time and others who have been granted more privileges in society to help lift up working class individuals who may need assistance without the concept of having to labor over something to partake in it.
The purpose of this is to develop a space with the community for the community. I want to learn with members of the community and help develop skills that can help them. I picked gardening because it has so many benefits: it is physical activity that just about any age can do, it has mental health benefits, it can alleviate food insecurity and reduce spending and it’s a great way to connect with others and build teamwork. I want to create a place for a sense of mind and substance for those who need it. This will not come with the prerequisite of requiring manual labor or any sort of labor to participate. People can simply be and enjoy the space without judgement, pressure, or fear.
