Sidahmed calls Local Law 83 a national model and explains first pillar
Sidahmed says Local Law 83 is a groundbreaking effort to use public resources to support local news. He explains its first pillar: ensuring every New Yorker can access public information through publications in dozens of languages.
Local Law 83 offers an answer.
It is a groundbreaking effort, the first attempt in the nation to put public resources to work supporting the local news outlets that help our democracy function.
It has become a shining light for cities across the country, with many hoping to replicate this approach.
On its face, it is a very straightforward law.
New York City government must aim to spend 50% of its advertising budget with community and ethnic media.
But underlying that are two pillars that provide us with compounding benefits.
First of all, it ensures that every New Yorker can access the critical public
programs and information that government provides.
In New York City, we are blessed with publications that publish in dozens of languages.
They are trusted messengers in their communities.
Through them, we can ensure that nobody is left behind on any government initiative that is intended to support everyone in the city.
As immigrants across New York City are under attack, this could not be more important.
Access to accurate, timely information can make the difference between a family receiving the support it is entitled to and a family being left behind.