NYC Transit Launches Campaign to Improve Rider Safety

NYC launches anti-harassment campaign across subways and ferries during April

NYC Launches Anti-Harassment Campaign on Transit

New York City transit riders will see a new campaign aimed at stopping street harassment on subways and ferries starting Wednesday. Mayor Zohran Mamdani launched the initiative to discourage catcalling and unwanted verbal advances in public spaces, officials said. The campaign runs throughout Sexual Violence Awareness Month, which begins April 1, with digital ads, posters, and sidewalk decals appearing across the transit system.

Context

The initiative responds to widespread harassment experiences among transit riders and pedestrians citywide. According to a study by the NYC Street Harassment Prevention Advisory Board, 74% of New Yorkers experienced verbal harassment over six months in 2024. The campaign addresses both verbal and physical harassment, with 53% of New Yorkers reporting experiences of being filmed, followed, or touched without consent. The $250,000 effort is the result of Local Law 46 of 2022 and is led by the Mayor's Office to End Domestic and Gender-Based Violence.

Campaign Details

The promotional materials, appearing in both English and Spanish, tell New Yorkers to stop greeting strangers with remarks like "Hey Sexy" and "Hey Baby" in public spaces. Digital ads will run approximately 12 million times on subways and over 15 million times on the Staten Island Ferry throughout the month. The campaign includes sidewalk decals at 150 locations and posters at 75 construction sites across the city. The initiative was created in partnership with city vendor Bandujo, officials said.

Implementation Timeline

The campaign launched Wednesday and will run throughout April, coinciding with Sexual Violence Awareness Month. Videos, decals, and posters are being displayed on subways, ferries, streets, and near work zones across all five boroughs. Officials said the materials will remain visible in high-traffic transit areas throughout the month to maximize exposure among riders and pedestrians.

Rider Impact

Transit riders can expect to see the campaign materials on subway platforms, train cars, and ferry terminals throughout April. The initiative aims to raise awareness about the real harms caused by street harassment and create safer public spaces for all New Yorkers, officials said. Riders can stay informed about transit updates and service information through Moovit, which provides real-time updates for New York City's subway and ferry systems.