Office of the NYC Public Advocate

10/07/2026

This LGBTQ+ History month, we’re blessed to be in community with advocates who are making history today.

A shining example: The Center’s Dr. Carla Smith. Dr. Smith has dedicated her career to fighting injustice and bettering New Yorkers’ lives as a champion of LGBTQ+ causes.

10/07/2026

October 7 will always be a somber day for the global Jewish diaspora, including those here in New York City. Many of our neighbors lost loved ones in the horrific terrorist attacks by Hamas in 2023, or saw them held and harmed in captivity thereafter.

Despite a broad desire for peace, many of our neighbors are still losing loved ones in the Israeli government's continuing genocidal response of collective punishment in Gaza. As we remember the souls who have been hurt or lost, I pray for the real, lasting peace that will make deep healing possible for all.

10/06/2026

We asked AI executives: Which guardrails are you afraid of?

Their response? Crickets.

Yesterday the Public Advocate pressed representatives of OpenAI, Anthropic, Meta, and Google to learn which safeguards they don’t want in place—which are probably the ones we need.

Learn more: advocate.nyc.gov/press

[Video Description: Video labeled “A Question AI Execs Can’t Answer.” The Public Advocate speaks from the City Council Chambers Dais, questioning four company representatives, who often stare in silence. Captions describe both “Silence” and “Crickets”]

10/06/2026

High school applications open today and close on Wednesday, December 4! 📆

You can apply in three ways:

💻 Online at MySchools.nyc
🏫 Through your school counselor
😊 By visiting a Family Welcome Center

10/06/2026

A. Philip Randolph said: “The people should share in the fruits of technology,” and its government's responsibility to ensure that collective good.

At New York City Council’s hearing, the Public Advocate pressed companies on the perils of unchecked AI expansion:

Press Release, October 5th, 2026

10/05/2026

NYC Off-Broadway Week starts today!

The Public Advocate and Council Member Carl Wilson stopped by the Lucille Lortel Theatre to celebrate the arts—and the chance to score 2-for-1 tickets until October 18! Because who doesn't love a duet?

🎟️ Grab a fellow theater lover: nyctourism.com/off-broadway-week

Mirielle Clifford
3:37 PM (6 minutes ago)
to me

[Video Description: Video labeled "Who Doesn't Love a Duet?" The Public Advocate and Council Member Wilson meet in front of the theater, grab tickets, and head inside, with various theater sound and visual effects]

10/05/2026

This weekend we lost Grace Detrevarah.

Grace lived her mission of uplifting the Trans community, setting the example in providing reentry support and empowering individuals living with HIV.

We are proud to have partnered with her, and the Osborne Association team.

Rest in power, Grace.

10/05/2026

10/02/2026

Some people believe their vote doesn’t make a difference.

If it didn’t matter, MAGA wouldn’t be trying to stop so many people, especially Black and Brown people, from voting.

The Voting Rights Act came on the efforts of millions marching. Defending it may take millions more.

10/02/2026

Shemini Atzeret and Simchat Torah Sameach to everyone celebrating!

New Yorkers across the city are rejoicing in the Torah and reflecting on the power of its teachings in our lives. May the gratitude and joy of this time move us forward, strengthening our commitment to community.