Hidden on the third floor of an old building almost beneath the Manhattan Bridge, The Imperial Ballroom is a bustling den of dancing feet and sweaty bodies. Founded over 20 years ago by an Asian immigrant couple who danced professionally, Imperial is now a popular destination for ballroom dancing enthusiasts for lessons as well as large parties. While most of the students are local Chinese residents, most of the instructors are from Russia or Eastern European countries now living in New York City while teaching and competing professionally. I know it is easy to say, but where else but New York City can the Imperial Ballroom exist hidden in plain sight.

Even though I have lived in New York City my entire life, I am still amazed at how cultures mix in the most unexpected and surprising ways. We live in a complex world where all too often barriers and beliefs separate people and communities in ways that ultimately are harmful for a healthy and open-minded society. In today's climate of xenophobia and tribal tendencies, I feel that the Imperial is a symbol of how people can overcome our regional and cultural differences to form a new dynamic community based on passion, craft and mutual respect.