Mayor Zohran Mamdani has turned his focus toward reassuring Black New Yorkers who harbor doubts about his policy agenda.
The outreach follows a rough start to his term marked by early unforced errors. Reports indicate that Mamdani is now making more pointed efforts to tackle the specific issues raised by these communities.
Earlier in May 2026, Mamdani hosted a breakfast gathering for Black clergy and elected officials. During the event, he praised the city's police force and emphasized new programs designed to assist Black New Yorkers. One key initiative he spotlighted was an office dedicated to combating deed theft. He also drew parallels between his achievements and those of former Mayor David Dinkins.
April saw the release of the city's first Preliminary Citywide Racial Equity Plan under Mamdani's leadership. The Commission on Racial Equity, however, intends to release a critical assessment this week. Officials point to missing components required in the plan, including a defined vision for incorporating racial equity into the budgeting process.
Community feedback has highlighted gaps in the approach. Linda Tigani, chairwoman and executive director of the Commission on Racial Equity, shared insights from residents.
Community members raised very specifically that they don’t see race explicitly addressed in the mayor’s racial equity report. They don’t see Black and brown communities specifically noted in this report and they don’t feel included in this work.
Polls provide a mixed picture of support. A Marist Poll cited in TheGrio coverage from April showed 55 percent approval among Black voters. Separate reporting from Amsterdam News on views after 100 days in office noted that 80 percent of Black New Yorkers believe Mamdani is working to unite the city.
These steps mark a deliberate shift as the mayor aims to build stronger connections with this key demographic.
