New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani confirmed via his office that he would not be attending the annual Israel Day Parade on Fifth Avenue, which is scheduled for May 31. The decision marks the first time in decades that the Mayor of New York City has chosen not to participate in the event, alongside state and local officials.
The parade is organised by the Jewish Community Relations Councils of New York (JCRC-NY) and the UJA-Federation of New York. It is one of the largest events held in support of the creation of “Israel”.
“My lack of attendance should not be mistaken for a refusal to provide security or the necessary permits for its safety,” Mamdani clarified his stance “I’ve been very clear: I believe in equal rights for all people, everywhere.”
The Mayor has been critical of Israel’s government, describing its attacks on Gaza as a “genocide” and calling out its “apartheid” regime. He has also advocated against taxpayer subsidies for organisations that support West Bank settlements, which he stated was a violation of international law.
Despite being questioned on why he attended other cultural celebrations such as the NYC Pakistan Day Parade, Mamdani reassured his commitment to the local Jewish community.
“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,” he said.
He also highlighted his government’s proposed Department of Community Safety, which aims at protecting the residents at synagogues and on public transport.
While Zionist groups and leaders criticised Mamdani for “double standards” and “failing to show consistent support” for all New York communities against rising anti-semitism, pro-Palestian activists and allies lauded the move.
Mamdani had earlier become the first New York City Mayor to mark the “Nakba Day” through a social media video. The day marks the anniversary of massive displacement and ethnic cleansing of Palestinians in 1948 during the creation of Israel.
