The article recounts a nostalgic view of skate culture in New York City's Washington Heights, showcasing the camaraderie among diverse groups of skaters. It contrasts the traditional image of skaters as primarily white males from California with the vibrant, multicultural community that emerged in the city. As skating evolved into a more commercial endeavor exemplified by brands like Supreme, the skaters maintained their protective bonds, emphasizing their connection to one another in a changing landscape. The piece captures the essence of youth culture against the backdrop of urban life, culminating with the premiere of "Empire Skate" at the Tribeca Film Festival.
Back then, the skater was California - a white guy with blond hair, blue eyes, and a vert ramp. And here we were, these dirty rats, skating around the city, destroying everything.
We stayed protective of each other. We were each other's family. It was still us and that's it - no one could break the bubble even as things got bigger.
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