Full Breakdown
NYC Launches $250,000 Anti-Catcalling Campaign
4/1/2026, 8:05:50 AM
Overview of the Campaign
New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani has initiated a $250,000 anti-catcalling advertising campaign aimed at reducing street harassment across the city. The campaign, which begins on April 1 in recognition of Sexual Violence Awareness Month, will feature vibrant posters and digital ads in both English and Spanish. These ads will be displayed in high-traffic areas, including subways, ferries, and near construction sites, with the goal of addressing the pervasive issue of street harassment that affects many New Yorkers.
Key Details of the Campaign
The campaign will utilize animated digital ads that will be shown approximately 12 million times on subway lines and over 15 million times on the Staten Island Ferry. Additionally, sidewalk decals will be placed at 150 locations, and posters will be installed near 75 construction sites. The ads will include phrases such as "Hey sexy" and "Hey baby," designed to highlight the inappropriate nature of such comments. The initiative is spearheaded by the Mayor’s Office to End Domestic and Gender-Based Violence (ENDGBV) and is a response to a 2024 survey indicating that 70% of New Yorkers have experienced street harassment.
Background and Context
The campaign is rooted in findings from the NYC Street Harassment Prevention Advisory Board (SHPAB), which reported that 53% of respondents experienced physical harassment, including being filmed, followed, or touched without consent. The survey also revealed that over half of the victims reported feelings of anxiety or depression due to harassment, with many altering their daily routines or considering leaving the city. The campaign aims to raise awareness about these issues and provide resources for victims.
Official Statements & Responses
Mayor Mamdani emphasized the importance of the campaign, stating, “Street harassment is pervasive—it impacts New Yorkers in every borough. And addressing it means investing in tools and resources to reduce harm and build safe communities.” Saloni Sethi, commissioner of the Mayor’s Office to End Domestic and Gender-Based Violence, noted that the ads are designed to engage the public and provoke thought about the consequences of harassment. Priya Nair, executive director of the NYC Commission on Gender Equity, added that street harassment is not a harmless act and affects individuals in their daily lives.
Criticism & Opposition
While the campaign has garnered support, some critics question the effectiveness of such advertising initiatives. Concerns have been raised about whether awareness campaigns alone can lead to a significant reduction in street harassment. Additionally, some residents have expressed skepticism about the campaign's potential impact on changing behavior among harassers.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Street harassment has real consequences—New Yorkers say it has caused anxiety, depression, forced them to change their daily commute and even led some to consider leaving New York City entirely,” — Saloni Sethi, Commissioner of the Mayor’s Office to End Domestic and Gender-Based Violence.
- “Unwanted attention isn't harmless -- it's harassment.” — Campaign Ad.
- “Let's figure out how we can do better as a community," Martinez said.” — Angie Martinez, Domestic Violence Survivor.
What's Next
The campaign will run throughout April, with ongoing evaluations to assess its impact on public awareness and behavior regarding street harassment. City officials plan to monitor feedback and consider additional measures to address the issue in the future.
