Big news at FU HQ: Rafael Espinal named New York City Commissioner of MOME

To our freelance community —

Yesterday, New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani tapped our very own Rafael Espinal, Executive Director of the Freelancers Union, to extend his affordability agenda to the media, film, and entertainment sector. In naming Rafael as the Commissioner of the Mayor's Office of Media and Entertainment, Mayor Mamdani is highlighting what we at the Freelancers Union already know: That creatives’ work is too often underpaid, undervalued, and the obstacles to achieving success can feel insurmountable. With Rafael in this role, he is making a serious investment in helping artists, creatives, and gig workers of all kinds to live a life of dignity.

Since joining the Freelancers Union, Rafael has led the organization in passing the Freelance Isn’t Free Acts in New York State, California, Illinois, Minneapolis, Seattle, and Columbus, creating the Freelancers Relief Fund during the pandemic, securing a new Freelancers Hub in Industry City, and launching our Legal Clinic. 

The Freelancers Union Board of Directors is committed to the seamless stewardship of the Union, ensuring that our legislative momentum, member resources, and national advocacy continue without interruption. Our advocacy is fueled by our members, and the infrastructure Rafael helped build is stronger than ever. The Board and staff remain dedicated to our current initiatives, ensuring our voice remains loud, our legal protections remain firm, and our support for the independent workforce remains constant.

In the weeks to come we’ll be sharing more from Rafael, reflecting on his tenure here, but in the meantime, please join us in congratulating him on everything he’s accomplished — and everything still to come.

In solidarity,

The Freelancers Union