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NYC Health Department Staffers Studying 'Global Oppression' Impact on Health
Mamdani administration creates 'Global Oppression Working Group' to address 'genocide in Palestine' and other forms of oppression
Published on Feb. 7, 2026
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Members of New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani's Department of Health reportedly held the first meeting of a new 'Global Oppression and Public Health Working Group' to discuss how 'global oppression' and issues like the 'genocide in Palestine' impact health and well-being in the city. The group aims to study the effects of trauma, violence, and discrimination on priority communities in NYC.
Why it matters
The creation of this working group reflects the Mamdani administration's focus on addressing issues of global oppression and their perceived impact on public health. However, the group's references to the 'genocide in Palestine' and ties of some appointees to anti-Zionist movements have drawn criticism from groups like the Anti-Defamation League.
The details
According to the New York Post, the 'Global Oppression Working Group' held an over one-hour presentation at the health department's headquarters to discuss the group's purpose. The presenter stated the group was formed 'in response to the ongoing genocide in Palestine' and aims to 'address the growing interests among the health department staff to learn about current and ongoing global oppression in its many forms and how it influences the advancement of health equity.'
- The first meeting of the 'Global Oppression and Public Health Working Group' was held on Tuesday, February 7, 2026.
The players
Zohran Mamdani
The mayor of New York City who created the 'Global Oppression Working Group' within the city's Department of Health.
Dr. Alister Martin
The newly appointed commissioner of the New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene, previously the founder of the political organization Vot-ER.
Hassaan Chaudhary
A transition aide for Mayor Mamdani who previously referred to Israel as 'barbaric' and used the term 'Jew' as a slur, according to the Anti-Defamation League.
The takeaway
The creation of this 'Global Oppression Working Group' within the New York City Department of Health reflects the Mamdani administration's focus on addressing issues of global oppression and their perceived impact on public health. However, the group's references to the 'genocide in Palestine' and ties of some appointees to anti-Zionist movements have drawn criticism, highlighting the political tensions surrounding these efforts.
