Public Advocate Jumaane D. Williams released the following statement today calling for the closure of New York City schools, among other measures, in order to help mitigate the spread of COVID-19.
"It has become clear that in order to mitigate the dangers posed by the spread of COVID-19, strategies must shift when it comes to our educational system. For the safety of students, of faculty and staff, and of the most vulnerable New Yorkers who they may come in contact with, it is time to close New York City's public schools, while implementing a summer school-style model like the one proposed by my colleague in government, Council Member Mark Treyger- one that ensures critical services still reach students, that no one falls through the cracks. Under this model, we must also allow schools that close to be used for needed resources, such as testing sites, to relieve pressure from hospitals. Parents and students should be able to go to schools near them to receive these resources. "I believe we also have to go further, and have more restrictive measures in place today to slow the spread of the virus. All non-essential operations and business must be temporarily closed if they can not put substantial telecommuting policies in place, re-evaluated on a weekly basis. I know that this will put strain on many, and the city and state need to prepare to provide financial relief to all affected. We in the city have an obligation to take all needed action, both individual and systemic, to protect the 10-20% of people at greatest risk from the virus. Responsible leadership means we also have an additional obligation to provide aid to people such as small business owners who are hurt not by the virus itself but by the economic impact of this outbreak. "No solution is perfect or all-encompassing, and no action will please or protect everyone. I know that as we confront this outbreak, we will all have to make sacrifices. But I also know that inaction and inadequate action are not options. New Yorkers can and will adapt, uplift, and aid each other through this time of crisis. Through it all, our goal must remain the same - harm reduction, particularly for the most vulnerable among us. "Personal and policy decisions cannot be made from a position of privilege, or from fear, but from a fact-driven approach that centers on protecting the people who are at greatest risk. My office will continue to work with city leaders to make sure that our most vulnerable populations are receiving the care and resources they need."