NYC Mayor Eric Adams is baptized by civil rights campaigner the Rev. Al Sharpton during Good Friday visit to notorious Rikers Island jail
- New York City Mayor Eric Adams was baptized at notorious Rikers Island jail on Good Friday
- Adams was baptized by civil rights activist Rev. Al Sharpton alongside a group of male prisoners
- The city-run jail complex is currently the subject of an ongoing legal battle that could result in a federal takeover of the facility
New York City Mayor Eric Adams was baptized at notorious Rikers Island jail on Good Friday.
Adams was baptized by civil rights campaigner Rev. Al Sharpton, alongside a group of male prisoners.
The ceremony came as part of a visit to the jail, which has seen reports of violent crime and inmate deaths, where Adams met with detainees over Easter weekend.
Adams was seen joining Sharpton in prayer, being baptized and having his feet washed by the reverend.
'Having been arrested and then elected mayor, I reminded these young men that where you are is not who you are,' Adams said in a statement following the ritual.
Mayor Eric Adams, second from right, laying back, participates in a baptism ceremony with Rev. Al Sharpton, right, while visiting the Rikers Island jail comple
Adams, top left, participates in a baptism ceremony with Rev. Al Sharpton, center
Adams, center left, participates in a baptism ceremony with Rev. Al Sharpton, center
Adding: 'For the first time in their lives, their mayor didn't look down at them. I sat side by side with them to be cleansed and recommit ourselves to getting on the right path.'
Adams and the civil rights leader have a long association, often hosting events together at City Hall.
The mayor also often calls into Sharpton's radio show to make a contribution.
Adams told New York City radio show 'The Breakfast Club,' Adams said he had also visited the jail earlier in the week and met with 'a group of 12 young brothers who recommitted themselves to Christ.'
'I've been on Rikers Island more than any mayor in the history of the city talking with inmates and correction officers to turn around what's happening on Rikers Island,' Adams said.
Adams and the civil rights leader have a long association, often hosting events together at City Hall
The city-run jail complex is currently the subject of an ongoing legal battle that could result in a federal takeover of the facility.
A recent report filed as part of the lawsuit said the facilities have fire damage, a stubborn bug and rodent infestation and cleanliness violations.
A monitor's report filed in Manhattan Federal Court in January monitored conditions at the jail between September and December.
'What's most alarming is how long these violations have persisted, with DOC ignoring its obligations to maintain and repair the facilities,' said Lauren Stephens-Davidowitz, a staff attorney at The Legal Aid Society said at the time.
'The result is a jail system rife with inhumane and unsafe living conditions.'
