Migrants Struggle for Shelter + Subway Pollutants Impact Poorest New Yorkers
No. 387 | Monday, August 12, 2024
The NYC Thorn is a weekly roundup of local political news compiled by members of NYC-DSA.
Wednesday, August 14, 6:30PM: Join us for the first of our NYC-DSA Electoral Forum Series: Debriefing 2024
Local News
After being evicted from a mega-shelter on Randall's Island, a group of migrants has established an encampment outside the facility. Meanwhile, migrants in Bed-Stuy face increasing difficulty finding shelter, leading to the growth of a makeshift encampment in the neighborhood.
A study by the Center for New York City Affairs reveals that, despite an influx of migrants, Black and Hispanic employment in NYC has reached record highs, contradicting claims that migrants are taking jobs from native-born workers.
A peer-reviewed study finds that the most economically disadvantaged NYC subway riders are exposed to higher levels of harmful pollutants due to longer commuting times and insufficient air filtration, despite the MTA’s rebuttal that 100% of subway cars have MERV filters.
The Adams administration struck a deal with Uber and Lyft to reduce the amount of time that the companies lock their drivers out of the apps to avoid paying them, but the New York Taxi Workers Alliance criticized the deal as insufficient.
Nassau County's Republican-led legislature passed a ban on mask-wearing in public places, citing pro-Palestine protests as the rationale.
A Rikers Island guard, charged with rape while off duty, has a troubling history of similar accusations from detainees.
With NYC's congestion pricing on hold, the City faces uncertainty in achieving its climate targets, as alternative strategies remain underdeveloped.
Crown Heights residents oppose a developer's plan to rezone and build a high-rise tower, arguing it will lead to gentrification and displacement and will restrict sunlight to the Brooklyn Botanical Garden.
A major clash is developing between the Hotel and Gaming Trades Council – the powerful New York hotel workers' union – and deep-pocketed opponents over a proposed regulation impacting the hospitality industry.
A judge harshly criticized the inhumane conditions at Metropolitan Detention Center, Brooklyn (MDC Brooklyn) during a sentencing hearing, highlighting ongoing humanitarian issues at the detention center, continuing a pattern of conditions at the prison influencing judges’ sentences.
A 90-year-old Brooklyn resident faces eviction after uncovering a decades-old deed scam that jeopardizes his long-time home ownership. The City offered tips and strategies to help homeowners safeguard against similar deed theft and property scams in New York City.
Columbia University has tightened campus access and surveillance in anticipation of students returning and expected protests during the upcoming academic year.
Gothamist profiled young activists in New York who are playing a role in pushing forward the debate on reparations for Black Americans.
A report reveals that 10% of New York City's public restrooms are non-functional, exacerbating the city's already limited bathroom access.
The last phase of the G train shutdown in NYC will commence on Monday, causing disruptions until Labor Day.
Election News
Manhattan Borough President Mark Levine has officially launched his exploratory committee, signaling his intention to run for New York City Comptroller in the 2025 elections. Current Comptroller Brad Lander has announced a mayoral bid challenging Eric Adams in the Democratic primary.
New York has implemented several new election laws aimed at improving voter access and the overall electoral process, impacting upcoming elections statewide.
The NYC Local
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