Zellnor Myrie Says ‘We Cannot Cower in This Moment’
A Call to Action for Public Safety and Accountability
As a state senator and mayoral candidate, Zellnor Myrie sat down with FAQ NYC hosts Christina Greer, Katie Honan, and Harry Siegel to discuss his vision for New York City’s future. In a wide-ranging interview, Myrie emphasized the need for a comprehensive approach to public safety, one that balances accountability with community needs.
“We cannot cower in this moment,” Myrie said, referencing the current state of policing in the city. “We have to be able to have a conversation about how we can make our communities safer, how we can make our police officers safer, and how we can hold them accountable when they step over the line.”
A Community’s Perspective
Myrie highlighted the importance of understanding the community’s concerns and needs. “I’ve always represented a community that knew we could hold two things together at the same time: that we want to hold officers accountable when they step over the line, but also that we need them as part of our public safety ecosystem,” he explained.
This nuanced approach is reflected in his plan for police reform, which prioritizes community engagement and de-escalation techniques. “My mom doesn’t want her son getting pepper-sprayed,” he said, referencing the experiences of his own community. “She wants to feel safe, and that is what this plan is about.”
A Path Forward
Myrie’s vision for New York City includes a range of initiatives, from increasing affordable housing to improving public transportation. One of his key priorities is building 70,000 new housing units over the next decade. “We used to do this in the city,” he noted. “We used to build 70,000 units a year. We built the Empire State Building in 13 months, 100 years ago. Don’t tell me we can’t do big things anymore. This is New York City.”
Conclusion
Zellnor Myrie’s call to action is clear: we must work together to create a safer, more equitable New York City. By prioritizing community engagement, accountability, and innovative solutions, we can build a brighter future for all.
FAQs
* What is Zellnor Myrie’s approach to policing?
Myrie advocates for a balanced approach that holds police officers accountable while also recognizing the importance of their role in public safety.
* What is his plan for affordable housing?
Myrie aims to build 70,000 new housing units over the next decade, drawing inspiration from the city’s historical successes in construction.
* How does he plan to improve public safety?
Myrie prioritizes community engagement, de-escalation techniques, and innovative solutions to address the complex issues facing New York City.
