Musician and activist Yves Mathieu East. Yves is the essence of what “Birds of New York” is all about. Where ever he goes he shines light. His beaming energy draws people to him, it’s amazing to watch. He is a tireless advocate, consistently fighting for marginalized communities, particularly trans and cis women and LGBTQ+ youth. He also rescues Pil bulls from fight rings on the streets and does rehabilitative work so they are ready to be adopted by loving people. He can dance like no one else. Its people like him that give this city a beating heart. I asked Yves what his relationship with New York City is and he wrote me this. Even when it’s pouring rain, it still has that spice, even when the streets may seem mean, there’s always something nice, it’s groovy, it’s dangerous, it’s unpredictable and gritty, it’s powerful, it’s vulnerable, it’s wild and it’s pretty, i could go on and on about this place and get really witty, you always sound like you’re talking about a person, whenever you’re describing New York City. #newyork #birdsofnewyork