New York mayoral primaries: candidates' cultural plans
The mayoral primaries in New York City are set for June 22, 2021, with the elected mayor expected to take office in 2022, aiming to rejuvenate the culture-dependent economy. In 2019, the cultural industry supported 300,000 jobs, contributing $30.4 billion in wages and $100 billion to the overall economy. However, the pandemic led to extensive job losses. Key Democratic contenders include Eric Adams, who suggests free spaces for artists and eco-friendly art commissions; Kathryn Garcia, who intends to simplify permit processes and introduce RediscoverNYC; Maya Wiley, who is pushing for a $100 million Creative Economy Recovery Program; Andrew Yang, emphasizing tourism and artist support; and Scott Stringer, who advocates for a $1 billion recovery fund and equity initiatives.
Key facts
- New York City mayoral primaries end June 22, 2021.
- Next mayor takes office in 2022.
- Cultural sector employed 300,000 in 2019.
- Cultural sector generated $30.4 billion in wages and $100 billion for economy in 2019.
- Eric Adams created $8 million fund for Brooklyn cultural institutions in 2016.
- Eric Adams proposes free artist spaces, public space use, smog-eating paint murals, and rent support.
- Kathryn Garcia endorsed by The New York Times.
- Kathryn Garcia proposes streaming Broadway shows, RediscoverNYC, and nonprofit funding reform.
- Maya Wiley backed by Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez.
- Maya Wiley proposes $100 million Creative Economy Recovery Program.
- Andrew Yang proposes tourism campaign, nightlife support, and outdoor alcohol consumption.
- Andrew Yang wants to eliminate restrictions on outdoor alcohol consumption.
- Scott Stringer proposes $1 billion recovery fund and purchase of 250,000 tickets for essential workers.
- Scott Stringer proposes 25 actions in four-part plan 'It's Showtime'.
Entities
Institutions
- The New York Times
- Broadway
- New York City Comptroller
- Artribune
Locations
- New York City
- Brooklyn
- Manhattan
- New York State