M'Finda Kalunga Garden

M'Finda Kalunga Community Garden whose name means "Garden at the edge of the other side of the world," in the African language of Kikongo, is built over the 2nd African Burial Ground, once located nearby on Chrystie Street. In the 18th century, Black New Yorkers—both free and enslaved—faced harsh restrictions, including burial bans. In 1794, land was granted for a burial ground, which operated until 1853, when remains were moved to Cypress Hills Cemetery. Created by the Roosevelt Park Community Coalition to address local drug issues and improve neighborhood life, the garden began with a social mission.