NYC hiring halls transform lives, break barriers, says Mayor Adams

In the New York City, Gary Byrd introduced a special segment on WBLS called “Hear from the Mayor.”

The program featured Mayor Eric Adams, the city’s first hip-hop mayor and the second mayor of color. Mayor Adams emphasized the importance of engaging with New Yorkers, inviting them to reach out via various platforms, including his podcast “Get Stuff Done Podcast.”

The highlight of the program was the inspirational story of Shaniqua Rumph, who found employment through a city-organized hiring hall.

“I walked in unemployed and walked out with a job,” she shared, describing her experience at the Department of Transportation table.

“They gave away possibilities and opportunities,” Rumph reflected, noting her new stability after previously working in less secure jobs.

Accompanying Rumph was Commissioner Louis Molina of the Department of Citywide Administrative Services. Mayor Adams praised Molina’s transformative work, saying, “Louis has just really transformed and moved to transform that agency with some good ideas.”

Commissioner Molina detailed the next hiring hall at the Jamaica Workforce Career Center, highlighting the expansion into public-private partnerships to provide more opportunities.

“The hiring halls have been amazing,” he stated, and discussed reforms to make city jobs more accessible. “We’ve recognized that experience is more than just a college degree,” Molina explained, opening 20,000 jobs to those with high school diplomas and relevant experience. Mayor Adams supported these reforms, stating they “open doors for a lot of people who felt as though life had passed them by.”

The segment also featured a lively call-in session. Linda Woods from the Bronx expressed her desire to obtain a passport to visit Africa. Another caller raised concerns about obscured license plates contributing to hit-and-run incidents. Mayor Adams assured listeners of the city’s commitment to safety and accessibility through ongoing initiatives.

As the program concluded, Mayor Adams and Gary Byrd encouraged listeners to participate in future hiring halls, underscoring the city’s dedication to fostering opportunity and growth.

“See you in 30 days, Gary,” Mayor Adams signed off, promising more engaging conversations and updates in future “Hear from the Mayor” editions.