On Thursday, New York City Mayor Eric Adams appointed Vijah Ramjattan as the executive director of the Mayor’s Office for the Prevention of Hate Crimes (OPHC). Ramjattan, who brings over a decade of experience in community engagement and mental health counseling, will oversee efforts to prevent hate crimes and support victims through community-based programs.
Alongside Ramjattan, Erica Ware will serve as the deputy executive director, and Jelissa Thomas will take on the role of senior project manager at OPHC.
In his announcement, Mayor Adams emphasized the importance of having a leader with the right expertise to tackle hate crimes across the five boroughs. He praised Ramjattan’s experience in marginalized communities and his advocacy work, noting that despite a decrease in hate crimes year-over-year, the work ahead remains critical.
Deputy Mayor for Public Safety Chauncey Parker expressed that the OPHC’s mission is to fight hate by promoting empathy and fostering connection among New Yorkers.
Ramjattan previously held roles as senior clinical research program administrator at the New York State Psychiatric Institute and as a counselor on Rikers Island.
The OPHC continues its impactful work, including the release of educational materials about hate crimes for New York City public schools and the “Breaking Bread, Building Bonds” initiative, which brought over 15,000 New Yorkers together in an effort to break down cultural barriers.
