UPDATE: New York City Mayor Eric Adams has sharply criticized mayoral candidate Zohran Mamdani for his push to decriminalize prostitution, stating that such a stance is misguided and detrimental to the city’s safety. In a fervent address to reporters on October 15, 2023, Adams emphasized his religious beliefs to underscore his opposition, declaring, “I can’t be more clear. I’m a man of God, just as Mamdani says he’s a Muslim. I don’t know where in his Quran it states that it’s OK for a woman to be on the streets selling their body.”
This urgent rebuke comes amid growing concerns over the implications of legalizing sex work in New York City. Adams, who is running for reelection as an independent, warned that Mamdani’s position ignores the harsh realities of sex trafficking, stating, “You’re not doing any service to a woman who is on the street who is forced to sell her body for whatever reason.” His comments highlight the potential risks Mamdani’s policies could pose to vulnerable individuals.
Mamdani, a 33-year-old Democratic candidate, has been vocal about his intention to change the laws surrounding prostitution since his initial campaign for state assembly in 2020. However, he has remained relatively silent on the matter as he vies for the mayoralty, raising fears among critics that he might push for legalized prostitution if elected this fall.
Adams reinforced his position by stating, “If that is his belief, it is a danger for our city. Our city needs to be a safe city. It should not be a city where women are standing on corners, or boys are standing on corners, or young men standing on corners selling their bodies.” The mayor’s comments reflect a significant concern for public safety and the protection of the most vulnerable communities in the city.
As the debate intensifies, city residents are left to consider the ramifications of decriminalizing sex work versus the potential consequences of maintaining the current laws. Adams’ remarks serve as a critical moment in the ongoing mayoral race, with significant implications for New York’s approach to sex work and public safety.
With the election approaching, all eyes will remain on Mamdani’s response and any forthcoming policy proposals. What happens next in this contentious discussion could shape the future of New York City and the lives of its residents.