Unless you are of Native American heritage

we are all from another nation at some time in our family history. Either we or our ancestors have left their land of origin to pursue a better life in the United States. The reasons for our departure are many and include: fleeing from war, famine, repressive governing regimes, and lack of economic and educational opportunity. All these journeys were based on hope and faith. So in fact we do have a shared and united history: a commonality. 

 

 

More specifically, what is now Hudson County during the mid 1800’s was settled by Dutch,

German, Austrian and Swiss immigrants. This migration was followed by many Scottish, Italian, Irish, Jewish, Russian, Polish, Armenian and Chinese. Then mid 20th Century many Cubans followed by other Latin immigrants; Colombian, Dominican, Ecuadorian, Mexican, Peruvian, El Salvadoran and Guatemalan peoples settled here. Other recent nationalities include Turkish, Korean and Japanese. Yes our area and Union City truly is the “Melting Pot”. We all have our own stories, and even though many are unique these tales unite and bond us to one another; our forebears struggled and survived, faltered and flourished. We have a multi-chapter story to weave. It is only fair and just to begin with the original inhabitants, the Native American Lenape located here during the early explorers and immigrants arrival.

 

 

This history is what sculptor Gunes Akseki has called upon, been inspired and motivated by

throughout his creation of this Monumental Sculpture “U.C. Project”, which not only honors the Native Americans who lived, struggled, survived and flourished at times on this land we are now meeting, but is also a tribute to all of the diverse nationalities and cultures that have called Union City home and shaped our community. 

 

 

“U.C. Project” offers a special tribute to the embroidery industry located here in Union City,

which employed many of the new immigrants and their families, plus greatly contributed to the growth of Union City: acting as a magnet and anchor for successive waves of immigrants

 

and new residents. This combination of industry and a hard working, competent employment base comprised of new immigrants and their descendants united to make Union City the embroidery making capital of the United States

 

Gunes has incorporated his interpretation of historical pre-columbian design into this majestic Monumental Sculpture, which will serve as an artistic inspiration for some, a source of civic pride to others, and a learning lesson to countless young people. Some will give it their gaze and dream. It may also become a place for gathering and will draw positive attention to Union City and aid in it becoming more attractive to those unaware of its many benefits.