The act of civil disobedience and subsequent arrests followed a rally during which New York City residents, elected officials, and climate advocates called on Mayor Adams to strengthen his proposed rules to fully implement and enforce the landmark city-level climate and jobs law, known as New York City’s “Green New Deal” for buildings. At the behest of the real estate lobby, Mayor Adams is proposing two large loopholes in the law’s implementation.

Photos by Dean_Moses, @Dean_Moses

“Exactly a year ago, we sent a letter to the Mayor, DEP, and DOB expressing concerns about rulemaking that would water down Local Law 97. We called for a REC purchasing limit, pollution limit enforcement, and support for NYCHA and working-class owners in the transition process. Since then, New Yorkers have felt more devastating effects of climate change, emphasizing the need for drastic, bold action. We have had an opportunity since 2019 to lead emissions reduction goals, and this is not the moment to slow down,” said Councilmember Carmen De La Rosa.

Photos by Dean_Moses, @Dean_Moses

Norman Frasier, Board member of New York Communities for Change, who was arrested today, “Eric Adams should represent working people, not the billionaires of real estate. We need good jobs, less pollution and lower bills, not this attack on our City’s future Eric Adams will take New York City backwards if he doesn’t withdraw his proposed giveaway to the landlords. We are the global leader on this issue, but if Adams has his way, we’ll fall back.”

For more about New York Communities For Change, visit, @nychange