U Thant Island is part of the fabric that makes New York City’s scenic waterfront so vibrant. It’s the dot you see looking from shore to shore from both Queens and Manhattan and it’s time to recognize and experience that oasis. U Thant Island deserves to be open to the public.

There have been many advocates before us who have tried to explore and advocate for the island, whether it’s been correspondent Dean Peterson of Vox Media or artist Duke Riley, and experience what this unique vantage can offer the city of New York and they need our help to influence New York City’s Department of Parks and Recreation and make U Thant Island accessible.

Though it’s one of the lesser known islands that comprises New York’s archipelago, it tell shares many important stories that made New York what it is today. Beginning with its inception from booming industry and infrastructure to connect the boroughs to its history with the United Nations as symbol of peace and “oneness,” it serves as a reminder of what we can accomplish together as New Yorkers coming together.

We the undersigned, are explores, inspirers, and believers who urge the New York City Department of Parks and Recreation to make U Thant Island accessible to the public as soon as possible.