About
Through the People is an interactive project and exhibition by the National Public Housing Museum (NPHM) and My Projects Runway (MPR). This digital archive shares the authentic stories of public housing residents through photos, videos, and stories. As the face of public housing continues to transform, there is an urgent need to preserve the history and stories of the lives of the residents who live and have lived there. For Jayah Arnett, the creator of MPR and resident of the George Washington Carver Homes, this collaboration “gives a platform to unspoken heroes to share their truths and an opportunity to collect the histories of residents to share with generations to come.”
Through the People shares parallels between the New York City public housing and Chicago public housing, the hubs for MPR and the NPHM, respectively, while opening an opportunity for residents from other parts of the country to add their own personal histories to the conversation. The project also celebrates and shares the cultural contributions of public housing residents, while empowering people to share their stories in a time where gentrification continues to displace families living in public housing. Through the People serves as a reminder that public housing residents’ stories matter and the history that lives within “the projects” can never be erased.
A Note on Language:
The National Public Housing Museum and My Projects Runway strongly believe in an individual’s truth and their right to express themselves. Public housing residents’ truths are oftentimes stifled through popular culture and news outlets. Moreover, some words can be used as a part of reclamation of power by those who were affected by them in the past. Through the People welcomes these truths and stories, and defend their validity and need for public viewing.
Some stories in this collection may contain content that is not suitable for all viewers. Words and phrases used by the creators may be considered uncomfortable, and challenging. Sharing these stories is not an endorsement of opinions or ideas of the storytellers, but instead a documentation of critical American history. We welcome public input and conversation to enhance our understanding and presentation of stories in this project and in future exhibitions and programs.