Washington Square Park has always been the center of political activism and protest in New York City. From early protests around abolition, war protests, women’s suffrage, gay rights, Black Lives Matter, Occupy Wall Street and more, this article goes in depth with photos from our rich history of using our community voice to change the world.
Read MoreIn 2021, the Washington Square Association created a new community affairs arm (see our 2021 Policy Recommendations). Since then, we have been active in advocating with numerous government agencies and elected officials to address our area’s public safety, public health, and quality of life issues including organizing a tour with our City Council Members.
We find ourselves in a unique position as an independent organization to be able to provide information to you on how our community organizations are responding to the challenges we face.
Read MoreThe Washington Square Association is excited to announce that we are returning to the Arch this year for our festive tree lighting. We invite you to join us for this holiday tradition that’s beloved by the community - please bring your friends and family. We will sing carols and are fortunate again to have The Rob Sussman Brass Quartet provide the music and Linseigh Green lead us through the Songbook of Carols, which we will happily distribute and can be found online.
Read MoreOn Saturday, October 22nd, the Washington Square Association hosted our second annual Washington Square Chess Exhibition. The event was held where some of the world’s most iconic chess tables exist, in Washington Square Park’s Chess Plaza, and featured famed chess Grandmaster John Fedorowicz leading a simultaneous exhibition against 26 players at once.
Read MoreCongratulations to WSA’s own Judy Paul for her nomination to the Washington Square Parks Arts Committee, recognition of her decades of contributions to our neighborhood, including the highly successful Village Trip festival.
Read MoreThis afternoon immersion in chess strategy in the Washington Square Park Chess Plaza will commence October 22nd with a lecture by chess Grandmaster, John Fedorowicz, and will be followed by a simultaneous exhibition during which Fedorowicz will play 23 players at once. Free to the public, all ages are welcome to participate.
Read MoreThe Washington Square Music Festival announces its program for 4 concerts in June.
Read MoreOur first Annual WSA Chess Exhibition with chess grandmaster Max Dlugy was a tremendous success. 23 players tried to best #1 ranked blitz chess players, and 2 were able to secure a draw - including a 9 year old. Check out the photos.
Read MoreIn response to growing concerns from our community about the state of Washington Square Park, the WSA has met with numerous stakeholders to formulate our policy recommendations.
Read MoreAfter multiple meetings, the WSA is pleased to report on the progress we have seen in the park and the policies that are driving the improvement.
Read MoreThe WSA is working with the Parks Department, NYPD and local community organizations to help address the chaos and lawlessness in Washington Square Park. Here’s what you need to know.
Read MoreWith 32 lights out in the park, the WSA sprang into action and coordinated with William Morrison, Brad Hoylman, Bill Castro and the Department of Transportation to ensure a bright and safer park.
Read MoreThe park is as beautiful as ever, so we pulled some of our favorite photos from different areas of the park to celebrate the beauty and creative energy of our beautiful park.
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