Curtis Sliwa is an American activist, broadcaster, and public figure best known as the founder of the Guardian Angels, a volunteer safety patrol group established in New York City in 1979 in response to rising crime and public safety concerns[1][2]. Born on March 26, 1954, in Brooklyn, New York, Sliwa grew up in a Catholic family with Polish and Italian roots and worked as a newspaper delivery boy before managing a McDonald’s in the Bronx, where his early community organizing began[2]. Frustrated by crime in his neighborhood, Sliwa first formed the “Rock Brigade” to clean up the area and later the “Magnificent 13” to patrol subway stations at night, which eventually evolved into the Guardian Angels—recognizable by their red berets and white T-shirts[1][5]. Under his leadership, the group expanded internationally, focusing on crime prevention, youth mentoring, and community service[1]. Sliwa has also been a prominent radio talk show host, notably on WABC-AM in New York, where his commentary on crime and public safety has shaped local discourse for decades[3]. His outspokenness led to a high-profile kidnapping and shooting in 1992, allegedly ordered by John A. Gotti in retaliation for remarks Sliwa made on air; he survived the attack after leaping from a moving cab[4]. Despite three mistrials, prosecutors did not retry Gotti, though jurors believed he was involved[4]. Politically, Sliwa has run as a Republican candidate for Mayor of New York City, most notably in 2021 and again in 2025[1][2]. His campaign platforms emphasize public safety, advocating for increased NYPD funding, more police officers, and changes to city zoning and shelter policies[4]. He has also been involved in recent protests, including a 2023 arrest at an anti-illegal immigration rally outside Gracie Mansion, though charges were later dropped[4]. Sliwa’s personal life includes multiple marriages and a public commitment to animal welfare, notably caring for numerous rescue cats[2][3]. His legacy is marked by both admiration for grassroots activism and controversy over his methods and political stances, maintaining his relevance in New York City’s civic life.