Dear CEC Friend,
I’m excited to inform you that the voting phase of the annual “The People’s Money” citywide participatory budgeting process is now officially open. Until June 12th, all New York City residents ages 11 and older, regardless of immigration status, will be able to vote on how to spend $3.5M of city funds to address community needs.
All New Yorkers have the opportunity to vote on a ballot for their home borough. Residents can vote online by inputting their zip codes. Paper ballots will also be available citywide at sites listed on Participate.nyc.gov. After June 12th, ballots will be tabulated, and winning projects will be announced. Implementation of selected projects will begin later this year, by community organizations to be selected through a competitive process.
This year’s campaign, “Play Your Part: Your Money, Your Community, Your Vote,” centers The Sunnies, playful yellow sculptures that represent optimistic New Yorkers who care about each other and their community. Throughout the voting period, The Sunnies will be installed at public locations throughout New York City, including libraries, parks, and halls, to generate excitement and inspiration among everyday New Yorkers to become engaged in “The People’s Money” process and beyond. The Sunnies project was developed by CEC’s Artist in Residence Yazmany Arboleda and brought to life in partnership The People’s Creative Institute who commissioned a group of immigrant mothers from Colombia, Ecuador, El Salvador, Mexico, and Venezuela.
Democracy is made by people who participate, and “The People’s Money” is the City’s widest doorway to democracy. We invite you to vote and also spread the word about this opportunity for all New Yorkers 11 years and older, regardless of citizenship status, wherever they live in New York City, to help us make them partners in decisions that impact their lives. Use this digital toolkit to help spread the word via social media, email, etc.
We look forward to hearing from New Yorkers on what expense projects they want to see implemented!
Warmly,
Dr. Sarah Sayeed
Chair and Executive Director
NYC Civic Engagement Commission
Follow us on social media and learn about our programs on our website : https://linktr.ee/NYCCEC
Twitter: @NYCCEC
Instagram: @NYCCEC
Facebook: /NYCCEC
LinkedIn: /NYCCEC
Participate: participate.nyc.gov
Website: nyc.gov/cec
