May 8, 2025
To whom it may concern,
I am writing this letter as I feel so outraged and appalled by the shocking news of the removal of Howard Brandstein from Sixth Street Community Center. The manner Howard has been fired from Sixth Street is despicable and cruel. Howard, now at the age of 72 years old has been unconditionally dedicated and devoted to his work to serve the community and the neighborhood of the Lower East Side through Sixth Street. Howard is the pillar of Sixth Street. It would not exist without him as he was one of the founders almost 50 years ago. I have always seen Howard being present at the Center and involved in so many projects, programs, events and offerings and in partnership, collaboration, cooperation with the involvement of the community, neighborhood, schools and local farms. Howard has shown only love, passion and generosity for his work. He had great relationships with all the members, participants and volunteers there. He has been an ongoing creative and inspiring force due to his exceptional professional knowledge and expertise but also and especially because of his human qualities. Howard deserves only respect and recognition for all he has brought and contributed to the unique role and gift that Sixth Street has been for the community. His value is irreplaceable. The continuation, the life and the meaning of Sixth Street, without honoring and recognizing him as an essential part of the success of the Center would be impossible.
Sixth Street is rooted in a spirit of community and neighborhood with a long history and impact in the Lower East Side.
A new legal structure needs to be created to reflect a harmonious and peaceful work environment that supports a vision and a purpose of service to others instead of a self-oriented attitude with hidden motives that are contrary to the very meaning of the Center. Actually, it is extremely concerning, as the future of Sixth Street is now threatened by such behaviour and by the people perpetuating it. What are the real motives behind all these false accusations, harassment, aggression and psychological abuse towards Howard? Sixth Street needs to be protected, to be managed and organized by people with the qualifications and the sincere and honest mindset necessary to be truly serving the great purpose of such a place. Howard needs to keep working at Sixth Street not only because of his amazing work but for all of us, as through Howard, Sixth Street has been an historical lighthouse and part of the vibrant and unique spirit of the LES community and neighborhood and I would add NYC.
We should have only profound gratitude and recognition for all that Howard has made possible for us at Sixth Street.
We should simply say “Thank you Howard” from our hearts…
Tchan M