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entertainment17h ago
Former Bushwick Councilmember Rafael Espinal Named NYC's New Media and Entertainment Commissioner | Bushwick Daily
- Rafael Espinal has been named the new Commissioner of the Mayor's Office of Media and Entertainment (MOME) in New York City, confirmed by Mayor Zohran Mamdani.
- Espinal’s appointment marks a return to government leadership after his work on the Cabaret Law repeal and the creation of the Office of Nightlife.
- Espinal previously co-sponsored the Freelance Isn’t Free Act, the world’s first comprehensive legal protection for independent workers.
- MOME will oversee five divisions, including the Film Office, NYC Media, and the Office of Nightlife.
- Espinal intends to ensure artists can afford to live and work in New York City, stressing support for the city’s creative workforce.
- The appointment aligns with a policy focus on pro-nightlife and supporting DIY art spaces across Bushwick and the city.
- Espinal’s leadership will report to the Deputy Mayor for Economic Justice Julie Su, who called MOME essential to growth and good union jobs.
- The role is part of the broader effort to maintain New York City's $150 billion creative economy and $82-104 billion annual economic output.
- Espinal’s career spans Brooklyn politics, worker protections, and advocacy for independent workers.
- Espinal’s appointment signals continuity in pro-nightlife policy at the city level, benefiting Bushwick’s venues and DIY spaces.
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