On Friday, Mayor Zohran Mamdani joined forces with Cardi B in an unconventional effort to spotlight City Hall’s initiative to offer free 2-K education in select New York City neighborhoods this autumn.
The Bronx-born rapper teamed up with Mamdani in one of his signature, stylized social media clips. In the video, the democratic socialist mayor seeks Cardi B’s help in judging a jingle contest aimed at raising awareness for the new child care initiative.
When questioned about the significance of free child care, Cardi B expressed her support, saying, “I feel like free child care is very important.”
Highlighting the challenges faced by mothers, the artist and mother of four noted, “Sometimes, us women, we can’t really move forward because we don’t have anyone to help us take care of our kids.”
Cardi B, known offstage as Belcalis Marlenis Almanzar, was also impressed by Mamdani’s youthful age of 34. She responded with “wow” upon learning that 2,000 2-K spots would soon be available for parents in certain parts of the city.
This pilot program will launch in all boroughs except Staten Island, with enrollment for the limited slots set to open in June.
The program is expected to expand in subsequent years.
Mamdani asked New Yorkers to submit their best jingle tied to child care effort by April 17 – and the rap superstar will help select the best tune.
“Cardi’s gonna help you by judging this competition,” Mamdani said with a laugh while the celeb cut in, “The mayor’s gonna help you and I’m gonna judge and he’s gonna give cause he’s the one with the funds.”
The 2-K pilot is expected to cost $73 million with the state solely footing the massive bill. The cost per child is more than $36,000.
