Ubiquitous mensch Steve Buscemi is a native New Yorker who’s never passed up an opportunity to help out his hometown. Aside from being a very charitable guy in general, one of the most famous examples of the Boardwalk Empire actor stepping up was on September 11, 2001, when he put on his old firefighter gear and volunteered at Ground Zero. He still helps 9/11 causes, but now he’s hoping to help people follow the same path he followed as a young New Yorker with a dream.
Gothamist reports that Buscemi was appointed by New York City Mayor Bill de Blasio to be part of an advisory committee to find solutions for the increasingly expensive housing in the city, a rapidly growing problem that has made it impossible for artists of all kinds — musicians, actors, etc. — to live comfortably or even just in decent conditions. Chosen by NYC’s Cultural Affairs Advisory Commission, Buscemi will work with the Department of Cultural Affairs on restoring NYC as a breeding ground for creative types rather than a place they can’t afford and, therefore, avoid or leave.
“[Buscemi will] advise on initiatives such as promoting diversity among our arts and cultural institutions by ensuring New Yorkers from every background are represented in a broad range of leadership and advisory positions in cultural organizations; creating affordable housing and workspaces so that NYC can remain a viable home for emerging artists; developing partnerships with local arts and cultural institutions to provide greater access to more New Yorkers; and developing the City’s first comprehensive cultural plan.”
Guys, Steve Buscemi is the best. The absolute best. He plays the most ruthless people, but he just wants NYC’s artists to have homes. Do not let him down, Bill de Blasio. Let Steve Buscemi solve the artsy exodus problem! I don’t want to sound scary, but he knows a guy with a woodchipper.
Source: Gothamist
