With antisemitism surging in NYC, Mamdani turns his back on the Jewish community…
New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani is facing mounting backlash from Jewish leaders and former city officials after confirming he will not attend the city’s annual Israel Day Parade, breaking with a decades-long tradition embraced by every sitting mayor since 1964.
The controversy comes as New York continues grappling with elevated antisemitism and heightened tensions surrounding anti-Israel demonstrations across the city.
Home to the world’s largest Jewish population outside Israel, New York has long treated the Israel Day Parade as one of the city’s defining civic and cultural traditions. Organizers say this year’s May 31 parade is expected to draw record turnout following Mamdani’s decision to skip the event.
“Since the very first Israel Parade in 1964, every single sitting Mayor of New York City has joined in the festive celebrations,” Moshe Davis, the former executive director of the Mayor’s Office to Combat Antisemitism under former Mayor Eric Adams, told Fox News Digital.
“New York has historically been proud of its deep relationship with Israel. Not joining the parade is an affront to the history of New York City,” Davis added.
Mamdani had previously suggested during a 2025 interview with the Jewish Telegraphic Agency that he likely would not attend the parade as a matter of political principle. Earlier this month, he publicly reaffirmed that decision.
Fox News Digital reported that two prominent Jewish organizations declined invitations to a Jewish heritage event at Gracie Mansion following the mayor’s latest comments.
In a statement previously given to the Jewish Telegraphic Agency and referenced by his office, Mamdani defended his decision while insisting the parade would still receive full city support and security protection.
“I look forward to joining and hosting many community events celebrating Jewish life in New York and the rich Jewish history and culture of our city,” Mamdani said.
“While I will not be attending the Israel Day Parade, my lack of attendance should not be mistaken for a refusal to provide security or the necessary permits for its safety.”
“I’ve been very clear: I believe in equal rights for all people everywhere. That principle guides me consistently,” he added.
Critics argue the Israel Day Parade transcends ordinary politics and represents a symbolic civic tradition deeply tied to New York City’s identity.
“The Israel Day Parade is a testament to one of New York City’s most important relationships. From healthcare to technology to innovation, Israel and New York City are partners in building a better future. I want every New Yorker to join the Parade on Fifth Avenue because celebrating this bond isn’t just for the Jewish community, it’s for our entire city,” former Mayor of New York City Eric Adams told Fox News Digital.
Meanwhile, a spokesperson for Kathy Hochul confirmed the governor plans to participate in the parade.
Ambassador Rabbi Yehuda Kaploun, Trump’s special envoy to monitor and combat antisemitism, told Fox News Digital when asked about Mamdani’s position that, “It is important we recognize the need for leaders to uphold their responsibility to protect religious freedom and refrain from making incendiary comments that contribute to the rise of antisemitism. Leaders who fail to do so bear responsibility for the increase in antisemitic activity.”
