Muslim activist to lead first-ever Muslim delegation in NYC Israel Parade despite threats

Anila Ali, a Pakistani-born civil rights advocate, is set to lead the first Muslim delegation in New York City's annual Israel Day on Fifth Parade on Sunday. Organizers anticipate dozens of Muslim supporters, including an imam and children, will join her.

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We are a little worried after somebody's been calling and saying to wear a bulletproof vest. But we're fighting to take back our country and it's a fight that every American should join.

Ali stated she has received threats, with one caller suggesting she wear a bulletproof vest. "But we're fighting to take back our country and it's a fight that every American should join," she told the New York Post. She views her participation as a crucial message against rising antisemitism and a demonstration of solidarity with Israel's right to exist.

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I want to show I'm a proud Muslim. I try not to think about the threat, but about what we're doing, standing with Israel's right to exist.

Her presence comes as New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani faces backlash for becoming the first sitting mayor since 1964 to skip the parade. Ali criticized Mamdani's decision, stating, "Saying 'I'm a Muslim' does not give you, Mr. Mamdani, the right to make Jewish New Yorkers feel unsafe." She accused him of using "the politics of intimidation."

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I'm now speaking at the height of antisemitism in America for my Jewish brothers and sisters.

Mark Treyger, CEO of the Jewish Community Relations Council of New York, which organizes the parade, welcomed the interfaith participation. "In the backdrop of a time of division, it is incredibly powerful to witness these moments of unity and mutual respect," he told the New York Post.

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Saying 'I'm a Muslim' does not give you, Mr. Mamdani, the right to make Jewish New Yorkers feel unsafe.