
A coalition of women’s rights activists gathered outside a women-led fundraiser for Andrew Cuomo’s mayoral campaign on Friday, voicing their staunch opposition to the former governor’s bid for office.
Holding copies of depositions detailing sexual harassment allegations against Cuomo, the demonstrators sent a clear message: “Hell no to Cuomo.”
As donors entered the event, protesters took turns reading statements from victims’ testimonies, including harrowing accounts of unwanted physical contact and abuse of power. One deposition recounted: “After a few times of him hugging me as a friendly hug, the hugs definitely got closer and tighter to the point where I knew I could feel him pushing my body against his and definitely making sure that he could feel my breasts up against his body.”
Lindsey Boylan, the first woman to publicly accuse Cuomo of sexual harassment, condemned his political resurgence.
“For the few women who are supporting Andrew Cuomo at events like these, there are dozens more who will stand up and say hell no. We will not let this abuser win and control our city,” she asserted.
Activist Zakiyah Shaakir-Ansari reinforced the message, declaring, “We have not forgotten how Andrew Cuomo abused his power to harass and intimidate women. We are here to remind those in New York who may have forgotten, to inform those who may not know, and to let Andrew Cuomo know we will not relent.”
The protest highlighted the ongoing resistance to Cuomo’s political ambitions following his resignation in 2021 amid multiple allegations of sexual misconduct.
As the city gears up for a contentious mayoral race, activists vow to continue their fight against his return to public office.