— In an exclusive interview with Harlem Network News, Mayor Eric Adams, running as an Independent Democrat for an unprecedented second term as New York City’s second Black mayor, outlined his administration’s achievements and tackled pressing issues like gun violence and housing affordability, emphasizing their impact on Black and brown communities.
Key Achievements for Black and Brown New Yorkers
Adams detailed initiatives addressing economic disparities, noting that programs like moving record numbers of formerly homeless individuals into permanent housing, reducing Black unemployment by 30%, and securing $19 billion for Minority/Women-Owned Business Enterprises (M/WBE) disproportionately benefit Black and brown communities. He highlighted efforts in foster care, including paying college tuition for 6,700 foster youth annually and providing life coaches until age 21, as well as free high-speed broadband in NYCHA housing to support remote learning and telemedicine. The Summer Rising program and 100,000 summer youth jobs also target low-income, predominantly Black and brown communities.
Addressing Gun Violence
Following a recent mass shooting, Adams emphasized his administration’s success in removing nearly 23,000 illegal guns from streets, including 3,000 in 2025 alone, contributing to the lowest homicide and shooting rates in recent history. He stressed partnerships with district attorneys to dismantle dangerous gangs and called for federal and state support to curb gun trafficking and reform laws enabling repeat offenders.
Housing and Real Estate Concerns
Addressing criticisms labeling him the “real estate mayor,” Adams clarified the economic importance of real estate, which generates 40% of the city’s income taxes. He refuted claims about campaign funding from the 145th Street Project developer, noting their limited contribution as a lobbyist. Adams supported the project, backed by local council member Yusef Salaam, and emphasized balancing affordable housing with market-rate units to sustain the city’s financial ecosystem while protecting small property owners, many of whom are Black, brown, or working-class.
Community Engagement and Education
Responding to concerns about community involvement in projects like the 145th Street development, Adams acknowledged the need for clarity on affordability and accountability. He also addressed educational disparities, citing initiatives like social-emotional learning, stress management, and internship programs in predominantly Black and brown public schools to combat systemic inequities.
Closing Call to Action
Adams concluded by reflecting on the legacy of Mayor David Dinkins, the last mayor of color 30 years , and urged continued support for his vision to deliver for all New Yorkers, particularly those in underserved communities.
For more details, visit harlemnetworknews.com or contact 646-261-5397.
Keywords: Mayor Eric Adams, Harlem Network News, Black and brown communities, gun violence, affordable housing, New York City mayor election, economic disparities, M/WBE, NYCHA, education reform
August 3, 2025 New York, NY
Sources: NYC.gov , BigNY.com New York news
