The past few months have painted a dramatic picture of New York City, with news reports highlighting overflowing hospitals and widespread chaos. While those accounts hold some truth, they don’t fully capture the surreal experience of daily life for those of us still living here. Despite the necessary precautions we’re taking, we’re continuing to work remotely, skate locally, and navigate this unique period. This article aims to share a glimpse into what life in the city was actually like from March to June, amidst the departures and unfolding events.
One of the most memorable aspects of the lockdown was our DIY box creation using Brooklyn’s discarded materials. Normally, such a structure in a public NYC park would quickly disappear due to noise complaints. However, with many residents having left for their vacation homes, our box has remarkably lasted for over two months! This was a small victory for skaters.
A makeshift skate box constructed from wooden boards and other materials, situated on a grassy area.
During the pandemic’s peak, a sense of lawlessness permeated the city, which had its own unique appeal. Public drinking and general partying became commonplace. Our friend Andrew Murrell even boldly entered the fenced-off Brooklyn Banks in broad daylight and took bricks right in front of police officers. This era felt reminiscent of the 80s and 90s in NYC, albeit without the crack epidemic.
Andrew Murrell stands next to a partially demolished brick wall at the Brooklyn Banks, holding a brick in his hand, with a metal fence in the background.
With all of NYC’s skateparks closed, DIY skate spots emerged as the new hubs for skaters. Numerous additions were being built all over New York and New Jersey, making it hard to keep track of them all. This surge in DIY culture could significantly shape the future of NY skaters, potentially fostering more unconventional talents rather than Street League-oriented athletes.
A group of skateboarders at a DIY skate spot featuring ramps and other obstacles, with some holding their boards.
New Yorkers have a reputation for complaining, sometimes even creating scenarios that invite complaints. A prime example is building a skate spot near train tracks on uneven ground – a deliberate invitation for criticism. This showcases a unique aspect of New York City’s culture.
A skateboarder performs a trick on a makeshift ramp near a set of train tracks, with urban debris and uneven ground surrounding the area.
Impromptu birthday celebrations became the norm during this time. A typical pre-pandemic birthday might involve a large group at a bar, lots of shots, and perhaps a late night encounter. Now, just seeing a few acquaintances, sharing a drink on the sidewalk, and avoiding being sneezed on while biking home was more than enough.
A group of people sit on a curb enjoying drinks and snacks, some on bikes, celebrating a birthday on the street.
Social distancing guidelines, in my experience, tend to dissolve around 9 PM when the drinks begin to take effect. Six feet becomes six inches, and masks often disappear. This highlights a universal human tendency to relax precautions as the night progresses.
A group of people gathered closely together at night, some without masks, with a few holding drinks.
At the height of fear and anti-Asian sentiment, I took a carefully sanitized bike ride to Chinatown. Most places were closed, except for a community center distributing free meals to those in need during COVID-19. The line of people extended for several blocks, a sight that was equally troubling and inspiring.
A long line of people extends down a city street, many standing outside a building with signs and posters.
During the initial week of the Black Lives Matter protests, local figure Isaac White and the Homies Network organized a march for the city’s youth. Many of the participants were teenagers or recent high school graduates, which was incredibly encouraging. Given the current unemployment and extended school closures, these protests are likely to continue.
A group of people march down a city street, many holding signs, with some wearing masks.
Ever wonder why pro skaters meticulously adorn their boards with brand stickers, sometimes in a way that may not be aesthetically pleasing? This is due to photo incentives – brands often pay extra for photos featuring their stickers on a skater’s deck in magazines. In some cases, skaters are contractually obligated to display a certain brand.
A skateboarder, Raspa, stands with his board showcasing a prominent Brixton sticker, with urban elements in the background.
The past few months have been a rollercoaster of experiences. The city has gone from empty streets to packed protests almost overnight. We’ve been out there as well, perhaps with a bit less fashion sense than some.
Two individuals stand on a city street with graffiti and signs in the background, one in a fashionable outfit and the other in a simple black t-shirt.
Just another day in Midtown NYC encapsulates the often surreal experiences witnessed.
A busy city street with people walking, riding bikes, and a yellow taxi in view, during the day.
The big question remains: How is Jenkem doing? The pandemic has posed challenges, with larger brands adjusting their plans and budgets, impacting our usual advertising revenue. However, there has been a surprising increase in hardgoods sales, leading board brands to invest in advertising. We’re happy to support them while the bigger companies finalize their 2020 strategies. We, like everyone else, are taking it day by day without a crystal ball.
