Archive · 1 Jun 2025
NYC Councilwoman Brewer Faces Backlash Over Migrant Dental Care Spending
Gale Brewer, a New York City council member, is being criticized for focusing on migrants' dental care.
She revealed she spent $8,000-$10,000 of her own money on their dental needs.
Some constituents are upset, feeling she prioritizes migrants over her own community.
Brewer stated she has supported migrants for years and wants them to have access to care, pointing out that many don't know how to use the healthcare available to them.
The Health Department plans to help migrants learn about city healthcare programs.
Councilwoman Gale Brewer has been criticized for focusing on migrant dental care.
Brewer revealed she spent $8,000-$10,000 of her own money on migrants' dental expenses.
Some constituents accuse Brewer of misplaced priorities.
Brewer has supported young migrants, especially delivery workers, for years.
The NYC Health Department will increase outreach about existing healthcare options.
- Who
- Gale Brewer, Maria Danzilo, and NYC Health Department
- What
- Criticism of Gale Brewer for advocating and paying for migrant dental care, drawing contrast with local constituents' needs.
- When
- During a budget hearing on May 23 and after, comments and spending were made.
- Where
- Upper West Side, New York City
- Why
- Brewer's actions and statements regarding migrants' dental care sparked criticism.
Councilwoman Brewer's View
Constituents' View
Priorities
Councilwoman Brewer's View
Feels migrants' healthcare is more important than constituents.
Constituents' View
Providing dental care to migrants is a long-standing practice.
- Council Member
- Gale Brewer
- Annual Salary
- $148,500
- Health Department Response
- Improve outreach for NYC Care
- Criticism Source
- Maria Danzilo, Upper West Side activist