Overview
- Manhattan Council Members Keith Powers and Erik Bottcher unveiled legislation Wednesday to amend the administrative code.
- The measure specifies that city- or state-authorized programs may give preference to artists without violating the ban on occupation-based discrimination.
- Cultural leaders including IndieSpace’s Randi Berry and Powerhouse Arts’ Eric Shiner voiced support, citing barriers that keep working artists out of standard affordable housing.
- Survey data show deep financial strain in the arts sector, with 57% of 2022 respondents earning under $25,000 and about 53,000 applicants competing for 89 Harlem units in a past lottery.
- Existing models remain limited, with Manhattan Plaza in Hell’s Kitchen cited as an example that recently reopened its waitlist for professional performing artists.