AM NY

“This was a monumental step by the Mamdani administration that illustrates that they’re serious about closing Rikers Island. This transfer could have happened within the last administration, within the last four years; it was all foot-dragging, and even obstruction,” Mack said. “It’s a historic moment to be there and witness that.”

NYC.gov

"We commend Mayor Mamdani and Commissioner Richards for taking these first crucial steps to transform Rikers from an island of pain to a site of sustainability. Members of Freedom Agenda believed they could bring the rest of the City to understand what they have long known–that isolating people from their families and communities could never create safety, and that we can only build a stronger City when we invest in support and opportunities for everyone," said Darren Mack, Co-Director of Freedom Agenda."

Queens Daily Eagle

“But DOC is still budgeted for four times more staff than the national average. We’re here today to call on the City Council and Mayor Mamdani to build on this important step by moving more money into the programs that can prevent and reduce incarceration.”