Joseph Romani

I look around and see strangers, but I also see myself. Being in a place that is so rich in culture but also so different than everything that your daily life has become accustom to allows you to see yourself. I am able to reflect on where I’ve been and where I am going. You see every color of skin, every attitude and ideology, and every culture. I think of my culture and how it affects me and how this city has affected me even before my existence. My great Grandfather Joseph Romani came to this city through Ellis Island from Bologna, Italy in a search of a new life. He was given a new life and a new name as the authorities of Ellis Island added an “a” to Romani changing his name and one day my name to Romania. You can feel, smell, and taste that things are different here. Culture, Ideas, and ideologies have been formed here throughout history. The world has been changed in New York over and over again. Being here and wondering the streets I begin to understand the brilliance of this city and how it affects us all. Joseph Romania came to this city and this country with an open mind not knowing the influences it would have on him or his future lineage. Realizing this I do not know how New York will affect me or my future, but I am excited and inspired by the spirit of the City.

Jordan Romania