Today, Mayor Eric Adams of New York City has unveiled the launch of the New York City Government WhatsApp Channel. This channel will be available in both English and Spanish, aiming to bolster and enrich direct communication between the Adams administration and the residents of New York. It leverages WhatsApp, one of the world’s most widely used apps, with over 2.4 billion users globally, including more than 98 million users in the United States. This platform serves as a vital means of communication for the diverse immigrant and international communities that make up approximately 40 percent of New York City’s population.
Starting today, on Friday, October 27, 2023, subscribers to the channel will receive regular updates directly from the Adams administration. These updates will encompass information about city services, as well as content highlighting the vibrant communities, activities, and culture within New York City.
WhatsApp introduced “Channels” as a new feature this summer, and it has already been adopted by private companies, celebrities, sports teams, and newspapers worldwide to connect with tens of millions of people.
Mayor Adams emphasized the administration’s commitment to reaching all of New York City’s diverse communities, including those who rely on WhatsApp for daily communication. The availability of content in both English and Spanish is a significant step towards ensuring that New Yorkers are informed about their government’s actions, how to access services, engage in events, and learn about the exciting developments within the city.
Deputy Mayor for Communications Fabien Levy stressed the administration’s focus on making communication with New Yorkers a top priority. WhatsApp, as one of the world’s most popular communication tools, aligns perfectly with this goal. The administration continually seeks new ways to connect with residents, whether through direct email, SMS texting, podcasts, or live call-in radio shows.
Chief Technology Officer Matthew Fraser emphasized the importance of going where New Yorkers already connect with friends and family. The New York City Government WhatsApp Channel is a significant step in making information more accessible and raising awareness of the administration’s impactful work on behalf of New Yorkers.
Today’s announcement builds on a series of initiatives designed to make Mayor Adams’ administration the most accessible in the city’s history. These include “Text With Eric,” an SMS-based communication program, “Hear from the Mayor,” a live call-in radio show, “Hear from Eric,” an email-based communication program, the “Get Stuff Done-Cast” podcast, and “Talk with Eric,” a series of community town halls. These initiatives aim to engage with New Yorkers on a wide range of issues and priorities, fostering a more open and accessible government.
