Greetings from Golden Gate National Recreation Area

The San Francisco skyline is like a cacophony of natural/modern landforms that descend into a glimmering bay straddled by the silhouetted Golden Gate. Right in the middle of the bay is “the rock.” A little smudge of land so spotted in history it deserved protection from the National Park Service. Nowadays Alcatraz Island greets cargo ships with an unassuming flat stretch of building and a sullen watertower. Alcatraz, by nature, is isolated inside the bay. You cannot feel the pain of the island until you see and hear the cities lifeforce from inside the cellblock. I was fortunate enough to visit the national park during Ai Weiwei’s @large exhibit. It amazes me that he knew what it was like being there, without being there. It really made me feel for those who are censored today. I listened to the sounds of the slammer, and experienced the darkness that was isolation. The rangers and docents really emphasized the psychological effects these had on inmates, which stresses the need to show people like Bradley/Chelsea Manning we are there for them. The contrast on the island was magnificent, I did not know the extent of wildlife that inhabited Alcatraz. Alcatraz translates to pelican so one could have guessed with that prior knowledge. #SFSU

Also, I think Seth Rogen visited the park while I was there.

Sincerely,
Zander

Golden Gate National Recreation Area

This recreation area encompasses more than two dozen natural, historic and cultural sites in and around the city of San Francisco. Experience the isolation of Alcatraz, America’s first “supermax” prison. Stroll beneath towering trees in Muir Woods. Walk on the beach at the Marin Headlands. Scan the horizon from the 150-year-old Point Bonita Lighthouse. Tour half a dozen operational and shuttered military facilities, including an active missile site. Hike miles of trails and enjoy unforgettable ocean views.

State(s): California

Established: 1972

“it is a way of life.”

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