These three chapters were very interesting to read.  It was fascinating to learn about the groups that live in Jamaica Bay area, how these groups have changed and how these groups have made use of the resources around them in Jamaica Bay and surrounding area.  I liked learning about the immigration of new cultural groups into the area, while Irish, Italian, Jewish and African-American populations have decreased in the communities. These new cultural groups, like those of Guyanese-Hindu background, people from the Indian sub-continent and those of African and Caribbean origins, have utilized the Gateway’s resources for their cultural and religious rituals. Another example of change in population is in Canarsie, where its population shifted from mostly white to non-Hispanic Black. It was also interesting to learn that the landfills are transforming into parkland. In addition, Canarsie’s primary waterfront access is from Canarsie Pier, which jets out into Jamaica Bay. Here, the resources, the pier and the beaches, have been seen to be used for religious ceremonies by nearby Jewish populations. However, it has seen a decline in the Jewish population, which has resulted in the area to be used more by Santeria practitioners.

It is also interesting to note that there are goals to bring National Park Service protection to Jamaica Bay’s resources while also extending recreation opportunities to urban populations. It has been hard to reach less advantaged population groups in the area because of the overall increase in poverty levels. This poverty has lead to an uneven numbers of families with children, presenting a challenge for Gateway personnel to reach them.

In the other chapters, it was interesting to learn that places along the water in Jamaica Bay have been used for religious purposes by  Hindu, Jewish and African populations. I learned that the nature of the religious attachment to the area has been to flowing water; bodies of water are important in some religious traditions. Water can represent several different things, like rebirth and purity, depending on which group you are a part of.  As newer groups move in, they also, may attach new significance to the resources of the bay.

I also liked that at the end of chapter 6  there is a realization that all the groups are important and that how they utilize the resources around them is just as important. We need to explore the best way to utilize the place without being exclusive to other groups or generations. All need to be aware of the racial, ethnic and religious groups that are coming into the Jamaica Bay area and how they are using its resources and realize the diversity of the area. There also needs to be an interest cultivated in the youth to preserve and protect the social and natural resources of Jamaica Bay, including projects that document their connection to the bay and mentorship programs.