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A diverse group of six individuals stands on a stage, each holding a smartphone to take selfies. They are arranged in a line with four blue chairs placed in front of them. The individuals are casually dressed, wearing vibrant and varied clothing, indicating a lively and informal setting. The stage background is dark, providing a contrast to the colorful outfits of the group. Each person strikes a different pose, capturing moments with their smartphones. The setting suggests a possible rehearsal or performance, emphasizing themes of modern connectivity and self-expression.
“SAFE” theatrical production
 Photo by Brooke Bannister
In a theater setting, a group of five individuals stands in a line awaiting airport security screening. Each person displays a unique style and demeanor, adding personality to the scene. The setup includes a walkthrough metal detector around which the actors perform, indicating a security check procedure. To its side, a couple of bags are placed, simulating typical luggage for an airport. The leading actor is extending his arms, possibly mimicking the act of being scanned, while others impatiently or curiously wait behind. The stage is minimally decorated to maintain focus on the performers' interactions.
“SAFE” theatrical production
 Photo by Brooke Bannister
Five performers are dynamically posed on stage, each in a distinct and expressive stance. They all wear vibrant and eclectic outfits featuring blazers, sunglasses, and sneakers, giving a contemporary and lively vibe. The stage is set against a dark backdrop enhanced by colorful and dramatic lighting, adding to the theatrical flair of the performance. Their movements suggest high energy and synchronization, indicative of a well-choreographed dance routine.
“SAFE” theatrical production
 Photo by Brooke Bannister
Two actors are in the middle of an intense scene on stage. The actor on the left wears a blue uniform shirt with dark patches on the chest and a matching cap, suggesting a police officer's attire. He holds the cap with one hand, gesturing with authority. The actor on the right is dressed casually in a beige shirt. Both individuals have determined expressions, indicating a serious conversation or confrontation in the narrative. The setting contributes to a dramatic and theatrical atmosphere.
“SAFE” theatrical production
 Photo by Brooke Bannister
A musician performs in a cozy, dimly lit venue, surrounded by an attentive audience. The performer stands in the center with a microphone, delivering a passionate speech or song. Seated musicians with string instruments, possibly a cello and violin, provide accompaniment from one side. Attendees form a semi-circle around the performer, some standing and others seated, creating an intimate and engaging atmosphere. The setting is accentuated by warm lighting and the reflection of city lights through large windows in the background. A sense of camaraderie and shared experience permeates the space.
Museum of Broken Windows reception
 Photo by Amber Yang

The Collaboration

Jess McLeod and Brandon Michael Nase worked with NYCLU to incorporate art driven strategies and projects in support of NYCLU’s work at large, by adding artistic expression to how they communicate policy initiatives and change to New Yorkers. Larger projects included the creation of a one-act original musical about over policing and metal detectors in New York public schools called “SAFE,” led by Jess in collaboration with composer Brian Quijada and choreographer Voltaire Wade-Greene. Brandon developed original performance pieces for the Museum of Broken Windows, a pop-up art museum which communicated the costs of excessive policing in New York neighborhoods. Other collaborations included creating original artistic content with artist ambassadors for social media platforms, and educating NYCLU staff about artistic strategy and narrative change. Both artists helped the organization get out of the “legalese” aspect of their work, focusing more on a human-centric approach.

The Organization

The New York Civil Liberties Union (NYCLU) is one of the nation’s foremost defenders of civil liberties and civil rights. Founded in 1951 as the New York affiliate of the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU), they are a not-for-profit, nonpartisan organization with offices across the state and more than 150,000 supporters.

Many NYCLU departments were able to connect with our artist engagement work on a deeper level by creating relationships with our artists-in-residence and collaborating on their projects. Ari Conte
The highlight of my collaboration was the ability to commission artists to create work that centered around the deep need for change in policing in New York City. I was able to provide space for artists to speak truth through their art, which for me is always the desire. Brandon Michael Nase
Spending two years in conversation with students about what safety means to them has deepened my resolve to use art to reinforce the truth of change work: the people who are closest to the problem are closest to the solution. Jess McLeod
Both our larger projects were open to the public, so in many cases, audience members did not know what to expect walking in. During the Museum of Broken Windows and “SAFE,” audience members left moved and often in tears.
Artists
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Brandon Michael Nase
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Jess McLeod
Location
New York, NY
Communities Served
Criminal Legal System-involved
LGBTQIA+
Youth
Links
“SAFE” press release