NYC Mayor Mamdani to skip Israel Parade, first absence since 1964

New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani will break a 61-year tradition by not attending the upcoming Israel Parade, marking the first time since 1964 a sitting mayor has skipped the event. The parade's theme this year is "Proud Americans, Proud Zionists."

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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 clarified in a statement that his absence does not signify a refusal to provide security or necessary permits for the parade's safety. "I believe in equal rights for all people everywhere. That principle guides me consistently," he said, adding that he looks forward to other events celebrating Jewish life in the city.

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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.

The decision has ignited controversy, with New York leaders and Jewish officials expressing strong disapproval. Moshe Davis, former executive director of the Mayor’s Office to Combat Antisemitism, called the absence "an affront to the history of New York City." Israel's Consul General in New York, Ofir Akunis, urged Jewish communities and Israelis to attend the parade to counter rising antisemitism and hatred of Israel worldwide.

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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.

Rabbi Marc Schneier of the Orthodox Hampton Synagogue directly addressed Mamdani, stating, "No one wants you at the Celebrate Israel Parade anyway. We don’t want you, your rhetoric, and your diatribe to ruin our proud day." Meanwhile, the group End Jew Hatred organized a protest outside Mamdani's residence, citing his veto of a bill protecting educational facilities from protests as a violation of religious freedom.

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This year, when antisemitism and hatred of Israel is at an all-time high, fueled by leaders in NYC and worldwide, we must show them that the blue and white flag will never be taken down!