New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani and U.S. Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez have collaborated on a Spanish-language video to encourage parents in New York City to enroll their children in free pre-K and 3-K programs. The video, which includes English subtitles, was released on Tuesday and specifically extends the invitation to parents regardless of immigration status ahead of the February 27 enrollment deadline for the 2026-2027 school year.
In the video, Mayor Mamdani admits to his limited proficiency in Spanish but emphasizes the importance of the initiative, stating, "My Spanish is not very good. But the fight for universal childcare? That is very good." He then introduces Ocasio-Cortez, who conveys the bulk of the information. Ocasio-Cortez informs parents of the three methods to enroll: online applications, a multilingual assistance phone line, and in-person visits to Family Welcome Centers located throughout the city's boroughs.
She reassures parents that the process has been simplified to ensure accessibility for all, saying, "Because no family should be shut out from our programs just because of the language they speak." Ocasio-Cortez and Mamdani close the video with a friendly high-five, highlighting the positive spirit of the message.
However, the video has ignited controversy on social media platforms, with conservative voices criticizing the allocation of taxpayer-funded benefits to undocumented immigrants. One social media user challenged the focus on providing services to non-citizens, while a right-wing influencer questioned the use of the term "free," stressing that taxpayer funds are being utilized for these programs.
The reactions have not been entirely negative, with supporters like Rachel Bedard expressing enthusiasm for government initiatives that serve the people. The video's release coincides with President Donald Trump's ongoing immigration enforcement actions, with New York City maintaining its stance as a sanctuary city and opting not to cooperate with federal immigration crackdowns.
Mayor Mamdani, who won his mayoral race with a commitment to reducing healthcare and living costs for working families, including undocumented individuals, has recently proposed a budget that includes substantial funding directed towards migrants in the city. In January, he made it clear that the city's pre-K and 3-K programs are inclusive, stating, "These are programs for every single New Yorker."
