Heart of the City

The heart of every city is the people who live and work there. They are the energy, the diversity, the culture, and the community.
In this ethnography by Ethan Shin, we will meet people who work in NYC and hear their stories.

The people you meet
every day
make a difference.

Through in-depth interviews and powerful photos, we will meet the people who make our lives richer and our diverse communities unique.

Meet the doormen

The doormen of New York do more than hold the door. They are the greeters, protectors, cab callers, and more.
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New York City Doorman opens door

People are the heart of the city.

Cab drivers, housekeepers, subway workers, security guards, barristas, construction workers, teachers—millions of people work hard every day to make NYC a vibrant, buzzing city. Each of them has a story to tell.

Wil

An interview with a NYC doorman and former veteran who tries to keep a positive outlook.

Irvin

Irvin is a people person who focuses on customer service as a way to connect with tenants.

Cleon

Cleon is a doorman who has interesting insights about the relationship with tenants and staff during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Christopher

Interview with Christopher Brown, a 21-year-old doorman in NYC.

Research & Resources

Is the American Dream still possible? Can working people live in the neighborhoods where they work? Is hard work enough? Read articles with research and resources about working and wages in America.

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