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Public Testimony

Nellie Mackay testifies supporting ban

New York City Council · Jul 15, 2026 · starts 8:11:49 · 1 min 34 sec

Nellie Mackay, a longtime animal rights activist, testifies briefly in support of the ban, urging retirement of horses to sanctuaries.

Member of the Public - Nellie Mackay

Oh, thank you.

Member of the Public - Nellie Mackay

My name is Nellie Mackay, and I've been going to protests against the carriage horses since I was a little girl, so it's been a very long time.

Member of the Public - Nellie Mackay

And so I am here in support of Intro 943.

Member of the Public - Nellie Mackay

As you have heard from so many people, these horses work in the sweltering heat and the freezing cold.

Member of the Public - Nellie Mackay

They're easily spooked.

Member of the Public - Nellie Mackay

They work next to loud, unpredictable vehicles and machinery.

Member of the Public - Nellie Mackay

This exploitative and dangerous industry has gone on long enough, so please retire the horses to a caring sanctuary.

Member of the Public - Nellie Mackay

Thank you.

Council Staff

Thank you so much.

Council Staff

Thank you to this panel.

Council Staff

Really appreciate you staying.

Council Staff

Appreciate your testimony.

Council Staff

It's very important to us, so thank you.

Council Staff

Okay, Karen Kapnick.

Council Staff

Yes, no?

Council Staff

No.

Council Staff

Farratt is the last name on this, F-I-R-A-T.

Council Staff

No.

Council Staff

Christopher Leon Johnson and Raul Rivera.