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Fort Greene

Dorian Muller

Dorian Muller was raised in Brooklyn and grew up in Farragut Houses. Although he is no longer a resident, he returns to the development frequently to deliver necessities such as food and clothing on his own dime. Dorian is the Director of Property Management at the Brooklyn Community Housing and Services, a school board member at Compass Charter School, and an advocate for Brooklynites.

Coming from a tough upbringing, Dorian relates to those plagued by the disparities spreading in the Fort Greene community. Since at least 2008, he has been part of the fabric of local community life, showing up in ways that are consistent, humble, and rooted in genuine care.

Muller lost his 16-year-old-old brother to gun violence in 2000. He works with a Brooklyn-based organization, the Melquain Jatelle Anderson Foundation, to support young adults and families impacted by gun violence. As a basketball coach in his youth, Dorian took on the responsibility of looking after children on an emotional level. “You’re more than a coach, you’re a second parent.”

The systemic issues behind what creates obstacles for his community are never far from his mind, stating, “We have to meet people where they’re at. Are we going into communities asking what is affordable according to where these families are economically?” He believes that great education, powerful communities, and the fight for change are what influence better circumstances for people who are overlooked by those in power–“I don’t think education should depend on how much money you have. We should just have great schools, period.”

He listens to the heart of the people and responds by using his own, creating an authentic reputation for productive action. Dorian Muller is a community hero because he has saved the lives of many by advocating for hope, restoration, and safety.

Portrait by

Francesca Magnani

Francesca Magnani is an Italian photographer based in Brooklyn, New York. Her street portraits explore the urban fabric and the relationship between personal experience and socio-political dynamics. Magnani’s work has shown in Europe, Canada, Australia, and the US. Her photographs are in the permanent collections of the Museum of the City of New York, ICP, Photoville, Aperture Gallery, The Italian Consulate in New York City, Women Street Photographers, and The Brooklyn Public Library. The Smithsonian National Museum of American History obtained Magnani’s images as part of the first set of pandemic-related museum’s digital acquisitions.

Text by

Sarah Gayle

I am Sarah Gayle, and I am a student at Benjamin Banneker Academy. I am always surrounded by Fort Greene and neighboring areas because of school, but the scenery, convenience, and community keep me supported!

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