NYC Gazette

Over 250 individuals, including parents, childcare providers, labor leaders, and elected officials gathered at City Hall to protest Mayor Adams' decision to close four childcare centers in Brooklyn. The rally was organized by Brooklyn Borough President Antonio Reynoso along with Council Members Jeniffer Gutiérrez, Sandy Nurse, Crystal Hudson, and Chi Ossé. Among the speakers were Public Advocate Jumaane Williams and NYC Comptroller Brad Lander.

An emergency meeting occurred before the rally where representatives from the Mayor’s office and DOE agreed to set up conversations with providers but made no commitments beyond that. The closures have highlighted issues within the City's 3-K program which provides early childhood education to nearly 48,000 students but was not fully funded in Adams’ latest budget.

Mayor Adams cited low enrollment as a reason for the closures, referencing data disputed by center operators. For instance, Nuestros Niños reportedly serves 96 students despite claims of only four enrollments. Additionally, several centers are owed substantial amounts in late payments by the city.

Brooklyn Borough President Antonio Reynoso criticized the closures saying they threaten community cornerstones that provide essential services. Council Member Jennifer Gutiérrez emphasized investing in these sites rather than closing them.

Congresswoman Nydia M. Velázquez called for investment in early childhood education as a necessity rather than a luxury. State Senator Jabari Brisport warned that these actions could worsen New York's childcare crisis.

Council Member Shahana Hanif pointed out flaws in the city's childcare system and criticized budget cuts affecting early childhood programs. She urged for an immediate reversal of the closure decision and full funding for these educational services.