iiinova — where your digital self keeps evolving

Office of the Public Advocate Jumaane D. Williams @advocate.nyc.gov · 17h

"Asylum seekers by-and-large just want to play by the rules, the way many, if not most, Americans think they should—the U.S., therefore, should not be changing the rules in the middle of the game." The Public Advocate Opposes Federal Rule Eliminating Interview From Asylum Process:

advocate.nyc.gov

NYC PUBLIC ADVOCATE OPPOSES FEDERAL RULE ELIMINATING INTERVIEW FROM ASYLUM PROCESS

Press Release, September 29th, 2026

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Office of the Public Advocate Jumaane D. Williams @advocate.nyc.gov · 18h

Speaking of Syracuse, more elected officials from New York City should travel to Syracuse! I mean, have you SEEN the Butter Sculpture at the New York State Fair?!? The @NYSFair was an amazing celebration of all our state has to offer, for New Yorkers of all ages.

The Public Advocate and his family pose in front of a large "I Heart NY" sign

A butter sculpture depicts an agricultural scene

The Public Advocate holds his daughter's hand as she looks at the butter sculpture

The Public Advocate poses in front of backdrop scenery showing the New York State Assembly and leadership

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Office of the Public Advocate Jumaane D. Williams @advocate.nyc.gov · 21h

When the Trump administration rolls back progress, students suffer and are less safe. The "Education" Department rescinded Title IX rules that strengthened protections against sexual harassment and assault, and that gave LGBTQ+ students recourse against sex-based discrimination.

thehill.com

Education Department formally rescinds Title IX protections for LGBTQ students

The Education Department announced Monday it has formally rescinded the Biden-era Title IX interpretation that gave sex-based discrimination protections to students on the basis of sexual orientati…

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Office of the Public Advocate Jumaane D. Williams @advocate.nyc.gov · 28/09/2026

Calypso won't be the same without the Mighty Sparrow. With his roots in Grenada and Trinidad and Tobago, Slinger Francisco captured the sounds of the Caribbean, telling powerful stories with a melodious voice. We send peace, love and light to his family.

apnews.com

Calypso icon Slinger Francisco, dubbed 'The Mighty Sparrow,' dies at 91, his family says

Calypso music has lost one of its most emblematic voices with the death of Slinger Francisco, who was known on stage as the Mighty Sparrow and dubbed the “Calypso King of the World.”

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Office of the Public Advocate Jumaane D. Williams @advocate.nyc.gov · 27/09/2026

We mourn deeply for the loss of Leighton Brown, a NYCHA employee who faithfully served Brooklyn residents and who was known for his warm personality. New Yorkers, let's keep each other safe. If you spot a tree that may be dangerous, report it to 311.

brooklyn.news12.com

NYCHA worker killed by falling tree in East New York

Detectives say the tree came down around 3:30 p.m. Saturday in the parking lot of 700 Euclid Ave. in the Cypress Hills development and pinned the man to the ground.

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Office of the Public Advocate Jumaane D. Williams @advocate.nyc.gov · 25/09/2026

Even in an era of prediction markets, it's not always good to be right. @nyscomptroller.bsky.social found problem gambling is up, especially among young people—and we predicted this would happen in our Spring report. Learn how we can prevent gambling's worst harms: advocate.nyc.gov/reports/gambling

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Office of the Public Advocate Jumaane D. Williams @advocate.nyc.gov · 24/09/2026

We know we won't catch a New Yorker slipping (not registered to vote). 🗓️ for the Nov 3 Election: Oct 19: Change of Address Deadline Oct 24: Voter Registration Deadline Mail Ballot Request Deadline (Online/Mail) Early Voting Starts Nov 2: Mail Ballot Request Deadline (In Person) 💻 nycvotes.org

Meme-style graphic with the public advocate looking incredulous. Text: me when I hear you're not registered to vote. You got till October 24

Meme-style graphic with the public advocate mimicking a statue in movement, with text: Dance like a registered voter. Deadline October 24

Meme-style graphic with the Public Advocate (labeled "me" clasping Council Member Salaam's hand (labeled "my voter registration status" at Style Across the Aisle.)

Meme-style graphic with the public advocate lifting his Grenadian flag and his hand at the West Indian Day parade. Text: Raise Your Hand If You're Registered to vote

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Office of the Public Advocate Jumaane D. Williams @advocate.nyc.gov · 24/09/2026

ICE wants to disappear our neighbors under a veil of administrative secrecy. @repdangoldman.bsky.social was barred entry into a new "black site court" at 26 Federal Plaza, violating his right—and New Yorkers' right—to congressional oversight of federal facilities.

nysfocus.com

Congressmember Barred From Secretive Immigration Courtroom

Representative Dan Goldman said it was the first time he had been prevented from attending an immigration hearing.

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Office of the Public Advocate Jumaane D. Williams @advocate.nyc.gov · 24/09/2026

New York is about to make labor history, thanks to @1199seiu.org and organizing by thousands of caregivers. When workers who care for New Yorkers in their homes are treated with dignity, it benefits all of us. We stand with CDPAP workers in their union fight.

digital.1199seiu.org

Powerful New York Labor Group Seeks to Unionize 190,000 Health Workers

The Service Employees International Union said it had enough signatures to trigger a vote by personal assistants who care for relatives and friends at home.

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Office of the Public Advocate Jumaane D. Williams @advocate.nyc.gov · 24/09/2026

We walked Syracuse's streets with the OG Against Violence, Clifford Ryan, who turned his pain into purpose after losing his son and brings a message of peace everywhere he goes. Gun violence is a statewide crisis. Support the New Yorkers with boots and credibility on the ground.

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Office of the Public Advocate Jumaane D. Williams @advocate.nyc.gov · 23/09/2026

Just in time for Climate Week, there's a weekend storm on the horizon. 📲 Sign up for Notify NYC: nyc.gov/notifynyc. Select "basement apartment" if that's you. ☎️ Notify 311 of any clogged catch basins: on.nyc.gov/CatchBasinComplaint A cold weather look at catch basins ⬇️

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Office of the Public Advocate Jumaane D. Williams @advocate.nyc.gov · 23/09/2026

What is DHS trying to hide? At every turn, they've attempted to derail due process and undermine transparency about what is happening in our city, to our neighbors. We'll fight this latest arbitrary, bureaucratic obstacle. Secrecy is not welcome here.

thecityreporter.nyc

DHS Opens ‘Black Site Docket’ for Immigrants Without Lawyers at 26 Federal Plaza

A reporter from The City Reporter was threatened with arrest while attempting to observe comings and goings from the new courtrooms, which have left advocates mystified and fearing the worst.

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Office of the Public Advocate Jumaane D. Williams @advocate.nyc.gov · 23/09/2026

We're hiring! Our office is seeking applicants who are admitted to the New York State bar for an Associate General Counsel role. This position involves providing litigation and general legal support, researching issues that impact New Yorkers, and more: bit.ly/AssociateGenCounsel

Graphic with scales of justice icon and text: We're hiring! Associate General Counsel. Apply now: Bit.ly/AssociateGenCounsel

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Office of the Public Advocate Jumaane D. Williams @advocate.nyc.gov · 22/09/2026

A win for delivery workers is a win for the dignity of all workers. This settlement is a major feat, made possible by organizing from Los Deliveristas Unidos and Worker’s Justice Project, and by @hellodcwp.bsky.social. Corporations should think twice before exploiting New Yorkers.

amny.com

DoorDash to pay at least $131.5M after NYC finds it underpaid 260,000 workers | amNewYork

DoorDash will pay at least $131.5 million to settle a New York City investigation that found the delivery giant failed to properly pay more than 260,000

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Office of the Public Advocate Jumaane D. Williams @advocate.nyc.gov · 22/09/2026

Summer is officially over, but the challenge to create safer communities continues. We recently traveled to Syracuse to meet with elected officials, including Common Councilor At-Large Helen Hudson, and violence prevention advocates. New Yorkers are united against gun violence.

The Public Advocate takes a group photo with anti-violence advocates after a training

Dr. Chico Tillmon speaks to attendees at conference tables, in front of a slide titled: Conflict is Bigger than the Incident

The Public Advocate poses with Common Councilor At-Large Helen Hudson in front of an ornamental staircase

The Public Advocate takes a photo with Clifford Ryan. Together they hold a sign reading "OG's Against Violence. We love our kids. Come together as one."

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Office of the Public Advocate Jumaane D. Williams @advocate.nyc.gov · 22/09/2026

New Yorkers, we have the power to save lives. Join our team and public health partners for an impactful training by the NYC Health Department on overdose prevention. This training will teach how to recognize and respond to an opioid overdose using naloxone. RSVP: PreventingOverdose.eventbrite.com

Flyer: Overdose Prevention and Response Training. Queens Satellite Office at Community Connection. Join our team and public health partners for an impactful training by the NYC Health Department. This training will teach you how to recognize and respond to an opioid overdose using nalaxone.
Thursday, October 1, 12 PM - 3 PM. Community Connection, 203-12 Linen Blvd. St. Albans, NY 11433
PreventingOverdose.eventbrite.com
For inquiries: RSVP@advocate.nyc.gov

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Office of the Public Advocate Jumaane D. Williams @advocate.nyc.gov · 21/09/2026

Nine years after Hurricane María devastated Puerto Rico, many on the island are going without water. Puerto Ricans are suffering because of the climate crisis—and because of the disaster that is our federal government's historically exploitative relationship with the island.

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Office of the Public Advocate Jumaane D. Williams @advocate.nyc.gov · 21/09/2026

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Office of the Public Advocate Jumaane D. Williams @advocate.nyc.gov · 18/09/2026

Young people with Tourette Syndrome should be able to see themselves in public life or in any role they aspire to—and that recognition often goes both ways. We thank Semai Yebio, an aspiring leader, his family, and the Tourette Association of America for a meaningful visit on access and awareness.

The Public Advocate and Semai Yebio pose, Semai holding a citation in his name

Semai Yebio speaks to the Public Advocate in his office

The Yebio family, the Public Advocate and staff, and Emma O'Connell listen around a table in the Public Advocate's office

The Public Advocate poses with the Yebio family, Emma O'Connell, and staff

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Office of the Public Advocate Jumaane D. Williams @advocate.nyc.gov · 17/09/2026

We suggest RNC Research do some actual research on Trump's new anti-immigrant public charge rule, because: Cutting low-and middle-income families off from public services makes all of us less safe. That's why New York is suing to stop this threat to public safety.

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Office of the Public Advocate Jumaane D. Williams @advocate.nyc.gov · 17/09/2026

ICYMI: We met with seniors in Harlem about their hopes and concerns regarding Artificial Intelligence. Our elders have witnessed enormous technological advances in their lifetime, and it was incredibly helpful to get their insights into good AI governance.

spectrumlocalnews.com

New York City seniors raise AI concerns at Harlem town hall

Some are concerned the prevalence of AI technology could be used in scams targeting older adults.

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Office of the Public Advocate Jumaane D. Williams @advocate.nyc.gov · 17/09/2026

Our city has a duty to keep people in custody safe; that's what "custody" entails. But at least seven New Yorkers have died in DOC custody this year. Luis Alberto Lopez Castillo's death must be thoroughly and transparently investigated, for his family's sake.

gothamist.com

20-year-old dies after medical distress in Queens Courthouse, officials say

Luis Alberto Lopez Castillo is at least the seventh person to die in the Department of Correction's custody so far this year.

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Office of the Public Advocate Jumaane D. Williams @advocate.nyc.gov · 17/09/2026

Want to make RFK mad? Roll up your sleeves for the flu and COVID-19 vaccines, and RSV if you're eligible. These shots can help prevent serious illness during respiratory virus season. 🩹 Find a vaccination site, including for uninsured New Yorkers: on.nyc.gov/4yBwPqX

Robert F. Kennedy Jr. with an angry expression. Image: Win McNamee/Getty Images

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Office of the Public Advocate Jumaane D. Williams @advocate.nyc.gov · 16/09/2026

We were down with the Orange and the Blue at Style Across the Aisle—or should we say, Style Across Teams! We partnered with Witness to Mass Incarceration, whose vocational training program, The Art of Tailoring, provides entrepreneurial education to system-impacted New Yorkers.

The Public Advocate walks arm in arm up the met opera stairs with Evie Litwok

The public advocate poses with Council Member Salaam in a white fur coat

The Public Advocate poses with Council Members and Mugzy McFly

The public advocate poses with Council Member Maloney, pointing to her bedazzled Knicks clutch

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Office of the Public Advocate Jumaane D. Williams @advocate.nyc.gov · 16/09/2026

With reading and math scores declining year after year, it's important our schools recommit to teaching the basics and do not allow machines to co-opt the ability of our children—especially our youngest children—to learn and think critically. More: advocate.nyc.gov/press/nyc-pu...

The Public Advocate speaks from a City Council lectern, with a "Mandates on Screen Time Use" sign, as advocates and elected officials listen

Council Member Schulman speaks at the lectern

The Public Advocate listens as Council Member Krishnan speaks

Council Member Krishnan speaks as elected officials listen

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Office of the Public Advocate Jumaane D. Williams @advocate.nyc.gov · 16/09/2026

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Office of the Public Advocate Jumaane D. Williams @advocate.nyc.gov · 15/09/2026

Our government has a responsibility to help the public better understand AI, ensuring that if and when this technology is used, it's to New Yorkers' benefit. We thank the seniors at ARC XVI A Philip Randolph OAC who brainstormed with us on how to regulate rapidly evolving Tech.

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Office of the Public Advocate Jumaane D. Williams @advocate.nyc.gov · 15/09/2026

After releasing a report on needed AI guardrails, the Public Advocate addressed the @council.nyc.gov on the impacts of screens and AI on students—highlighting the city’s efforts to engage with the rise of AI usage among students as a “first step, not a final word.”

advocate.nyc.gov

NYC PUBLIC ADVOCATE ARGUES FOR A.I. GUARDRAILS AND SCREEN TIME LIMITS IN SCHOOLS AT COUNCIL HEARING

Press Release, September 15th, 2026

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Office of the Public Advocate Jumaane D. Williams @advocate.nyc.gov · 15/09/2026

Listen up: New York City's elders have some 💡 thoughts on AI. We can't thank the seniors at ARC XVI A Philip Randolph OAC enough for tackling the topic of good AI governance with us, as we released our new report, Artificially Inevitable. Read it here: advocate.nyc.gov/reports/Arti...

The Public Advocate speaks next to a slide with a photo of A. Phillip Randolph and a quote: You cannot destroy the machine. You cannot stifle the invention of various geniuses in the world..."

The Public Advocate looks up at a slide with a picture of Trump and question: "Is this Donald Trump clip AI?"

The Public Advocate holds up a copy of the "Artificially Inevitable" report as seniors discuss in the background

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Office of the Public Advocate Jumaane D. Williams @advocate.nyc.gov · 15/09/2026

🗳️ It's National Voter Registration Day! Celebrate civic engagement—and this week's preservation of mail-in voting by SCOTUS—by registering to vote and participating in our democracy. Here’s where you can find us and our partners today, September 15: advocate.nyc.gov/blog/voter-registration-2026

National Voter Registration Day flyer for Tuesday, September 15. 28 locations across Manhattan can be found at: advocate.nyc.gov/blog

National Voter Registration Day flyer for Tuesday, September 15. 28 locations across the Bronx, Brooklyn, and Queens can be found at: advocate.nyc.gov/blog

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Office of the Public Advocate Jumaane D. Williams @advocate.nyc.gov · 14/09/2026

The new public charge rule's purpose is cruelty, and it will be a disaster for public health and safety. The White House is using every tool they have to undermine communities, creating a chilling effect on access to services. New York will use every tool we have to fight back.

The Public Advocate speaks in the City Hall rotunda, as advocates and officials listen and hold "Immigrants are New York!" posters

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Office of the Public Advocate Jumaane D. Williams @advocate.nyc.gov · 14/09/2026

Today we'll talk to students and seniors—who are pretty STRONG AND SMART—for a conversation on the role of AI in our lives, as the Public Advocate releases a new report on the need for good AI governance. You'd think someone with a "High IQ!" would get that AI needs guardrails.

Truth Social post from President Trump, reading:

The only control or “guardrails” that AI needs is a STRONG AND SMART (High IQ!) PRESIDENT, and the U.S.A. has that, in spades! The Trump Administration has stopped AI “people” from doing bad, or potentially bad, “things,“ like Dario (Anthropic!), who is now pretending to be a “perfect little angel” - and we will continue to do so! We already have tremendous CRIMINAL and REGULATORY power over these companies! There is a SICK conspiracy going on against AI and Data Centers, and the only one that is happy about it is China. WHOEVER WINS AI, WINS! We are leading China, and all others, and will continue to do so. Conspiracy Theorists, Treasonists, Traitors, and Leakers, BEWARE! Thank you for your attention to this matter! President DONALD J. TRUMP

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Office of the Public Advocate Jumaane D. Williams @advocate.nyc.gov · 11/09/2026

Today marks 25 years since the most acute devastation and heartbreak our city has faced. Our reverence echoed in the reading of names at Ground Zero, as we remember the nearly 3,000 Americans who lost their lives to an act of terror, and all those lost in the painful aftermath.

The Public Advocate holds a banner with a traced name in front of One World Trade Center: Linda Ivelisse Rivera

The Public Advocate listens behind the Obamas

Members of the FDNY and their family hold up a memorial photo of a firefighter

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Office of the Public Advocate Jumaane D. Williams @advocate.nyc.gov · 11/09/2026

A central tenet of housing justice: Your home shouldn't make you sick. Our city must be able to protect all New Yorkers, increase awareness, and prevent exposure. If you have flu-like symptoms and your zip code is 10451 or 10456, seek medical attention.

gothamist.com

South Bronx Legionnaires’ cluster kills 1, sickens 5, NYC says

The new cluster in Melrose and Morrisania comes weeks after a deadly Upper East Side outbreak.

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Office of the Public Advocate Jumaane D. Williams @advocate.nyc.gov · 11/09/2026

A question has echoed for 25 years: Where were you on 9/11? We pose another, an inherent plea: Where are we now? We must embody the ideals of our local response in the aftermath of 9/11, and the surge in collective empathy—the New Yorkers we honor today deserve no less.

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Office of the Public Advocate Jumaane D. Williams @advocate.nyc.gov · 11/09/2026

"As a lifelong New Yorker, I will never forget the scale of this tragedy, never stop lifting up the memories of those killed on the day and as a result of it, the heroism of first responders, the grief of survivors, and the needs of those still suffering." Full statement: advocate.nyc.gov/press

Black and white photo of the Public Advocate looking at the names carved into the 9/11 Memorial reflecting pool. Overlaid text: September 11, 2001. 25 Years later. Never Forget.

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Office of the Public Advocate Jumaane D. Williams @advocate.nyc.gov · 10/09/2026

We mourn for the New Yorker killed in this horrific tragedy, and pray for the recovery of those injured. Drivers of large vehicles must take care to protect pedestrians who are more vulnerable on our sidewalks and streets—and the city must design those streets to promote safety.

gothamist.com

Truck jumps curb in NYC Chinatown, killing a man and injuring 2 women

The truck was going north on Bowery and struck a parked car at Hester Street, where a 66-year-old driver was taken into custody, police said.

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Office of the Public Advocate Jumaane D. Williams @advocate.nyc.gov · 10/09/2026

Nice to see @cuny.edu getting some shine. Seven CUNY Schools made @forbes.com's list of schools with the best ROI for graduates, AND eight are on @time.com's "America’s Best Colleges." CUNY fosters economic mobility and opportunity—we need to finally, fully fund it.

forbes.com

The 25 U.S. Colleges With The Highest ROI

These schools deliver the strongest financial return on investment thanks to graduates’ earnings and either relatively low costs or generous financial aid.

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Office of the Public Advocate Jumaane D. Williams @advocate.nyc.gov · 10/09/2026

Healthcare is suicide prevention. Housing is suicide prevention. Inclusive, trauma-informed schools are suicide prevention. Suicide prevention requires we continue investing in a strong continuum of care. If you or a loved one need help, call 988. #SuicidePreventionDay

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Office of the Public Advocate Jumaane D. Williams @advocate.nyc.gov · 10/09/2026

Some leaders need to hear this: If you say the mayor who lied about poison in NYC after 9/11 should attend the memorial ceremony, but the mayor who revealed those lies shouldn’t—you’re not supporting survivors, honoring victims, or being patriotic. You’re probably just a bigot.

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Office of the Public Advocate Jumaane D. Williams @advocate.nyc.gov · 10/09/2026

NYC streets should work for all New Yorkers with infrastructure to keep everyone safe—whether on foot or on wheels. We joined advocates to call on NYC DOT to redesign Northern Boulevard through Jackson Heights, starting with a protected micromobility lane. 📷 Alliance for Paseo Park

Advocates and elected officials take a group photo, holding up signs with messages like "Make Room for Deliveristas" and "Safe Streets Save Lives!"

Council Member Krishnan speaks as rally attendees listen

Assembly Member Jessica González-Rojas speaks behind a "Safe Streets Save Lives" poster

Delivery workers hold a "Los Deliveristas Unidos" banner and posters reading "Our Deliveries, Our Responsibility"

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Office of the Public Advocate Jumaane D. Williams @advocate.nyc.gov · 10/09/2026

Happy first day of school to students, teachers, and staff! As students enter the school building, they're set to begin an empowering year of learning and growth. Thank you to the educators, administrators, and caregivers who make it possible. 🎒📚📓

The Public Advocate smiles in front of a school's "Welcome back to school" banner

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Office of the Public Advocate Jumaane D. Williams @advocate.nyc.gov · 09/09/2026

J'Ouvert may be the best party you've never heard of—and so much more. For centuries, revelers have donned costumes both sinister and celestial, mocking the evils of slavery, or embodying a brighter future. We hope every year, J'Ouvert brings a peaceful daybreak to Brooklyn.

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Office of the Public Advocate Jumaane D. Williams @advocate.nyc.gov · 08/09/2026

Healing is impossible without transparency. Yet for the survivors, first responders, and community members sickened in the wake of the 9/11 attacks, transparency was denied for decades. We welcome this commitment to accountability and to ensuring we don't repeat past mistakes.

amny.com

9/11 public portal: Mamdani releases first 170,000 pages as records renew questions over air-quality warnings | amNewYork

By launching the 9/11 portal and beginning to release the records just days before the 25th anniversary of the terrorist attacks, Mayor Zohran Mamdani’s

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Office of the Public Advocate Jumaane D. Williams @advocate.nyc.gov · 08/09/2026

The 59th Annual West Indian American Day Carnival brought so many moments of unity and joy. From our partners in our contingent and the community partners on the ground, we thank our Famalay on the Parkway.

The Public Advocate, Brooklyn Deputy Borough President Kim Council, and Comptroller Mark Levine pose on the float holding flags

The Public Advocate poses with City Council Members and New York State Nurses Association members, who hold signs with messages like "Stand with Haiti" and "Some cuts don't heal"

The Public Advocate poses with Assembly Member Chandler-Waterman and her contingent

The Public Advocate and elected officials cut the ribbon for the parade

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Office of the Public Advocate Jumaane D. Williams @advocate.nyc.gov · 08/09/2026

"We don’t accept it as inevitable that violence rises with crowd size or temperature...Beyond one day, there is labor to be done year round to protect the very communities we celebrate." Statement on labor day violence, with Assembly Member Monique Chandler-Waterman, and Council Member Rita Joseph:

advocate.nyc.gov

STATEMENT ON LABOR DAY VIOLENCE FROM NYC PUBLIC ADVOCATE AND LOCAL ELECTED OFFICIALS

Press Release, September 8th, 2026

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Office of the Public Advocate Jumaane D. Williams @advocate.nyc.gov · 07/09/2026

🇭🇹 Standing with our Haitian communities on the Parkway.

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Office of the Public Advocate Jumaane D. Williams @advocate.nyc.gov · 07/09/2026

Happy Labor Day! Have you thanked a union member for fighting for our rights today? The labor movement in New York City is stronger than ever. Our next fight, and our next win: The Delivery Protection Act to protect workers, create safer streets, and hold Amazon accountable.

Graphic with photo collage of various labor events, with text: Labor Day 2026. Join the Movement for Workers

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Office of the Public Advocate Jumaane D. Williams @advocate.nyc.gov · 05/09/2026

On Labor Day, being ready for the road means being able to celebrate joyfully and safely. Partnership—across government, with partners on the ground—is essential for keeping the West Indian Day Parade safe, as is listening to the community's voice in developing a safety plan.

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