New York Mayor Mamdani to skip Israel Day Parade amid criticism from Jewish groups

New York Mayor Zohran Mamdani is facing criticism from Jewish organisations after deciding not to attend the city's historic Israel Day Parade, breaking with a tradition followed by every sitting mayor since the event began in 1964.

The decision comes as New York city experiences record levels of antisemitism and weeks of anti-Israel demonstrations outside synagogues and Jewish community institutions.

Home to the largest Jewish population outside Israel, New York has long regarded the annual parade as one of the clearest public expressions of solidarity with both Israel and the Jewish community.

Meanwhile, on Tuesday (19 May), two major Jewish organisations – the UJA-Federation of New York and the Jewish Community Relations Council of New York – declined invitations to a Jewish heritage event hosted by Mamdani at Gracie Mansion in response to his decision.

Moshe Davis, former executive director of the Mayor's Office to Combat Antisemitism under former mayor Eric Adams, criticised the move.

"Since the very first Israel Parade in 1964, every single sitting Mayor of New York City has joined in the festive celebrations. 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," he told Fox News Digital.

Earlier this month, Mamdani officially confirmed he would not attend the parade, which is scheduled for 31 May. Organisers say this year's event is expected to draw a record turnout following the controversy surrounding his absence.

Mamdani had earlier indicated during an October 2025 interview with the Jewish Telegraphic Agency that he would likely avoid attending some traditional city parades due to political principles, evaluating appearances on a "case-by-case" basis.

Responding to criticism, Mamdani said his absence should not be interpreted as opposition to the Jewish community or refusal to ensure public safety at the event.

"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 in a statement provided to the Jewish Telegraphic Agency.

"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.

Community leaders argued that the parade is not simply a political event but a civic tradition closely connected to New York City's Jewish identity and history.

Former mayor Eric Adams also defended the significance of the parade.

"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," Adams told Fox News Digital.

The controversy has expanded beyond the parade itself. The UJA Federation of New York and the Jewish Community Relations Council of New York also declined to attend Mamdani's first Jewish Heritage event ahead of the Jewish holiday of Shavuot.

In a statement, the groups said they would not participate in an event hosted by a mayor who "denies the core pillar of our heritage, the State of Israel as the homeland of the Jewish people".

At the event, Mamdani acknowledged rising antisemitism in the city, noting that Jewish residents, who make up nearly 12% of New York City's population, account for more than 50% of hate crime targets.

He also announced a proposed annual investment of $26 million to expand hate crime prevention efforts through the city's Office for the Prevention of Hate Crimes, although details of the initiative remain unclear.

Meanwhile, Ambassador Rabbi Yehuda Kaploun, appointed under Donald Trump, said leaders must avoid rhetoric that could contribute to antisemitism.

"It is important we recognise 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," he told Fox News Digital.

This year's Israel Day Parade is also expected to feature expanded interfaith participation. For the first time in the event's 61-year history, some Muslim groups are expected to march alongside Jewish organisations, along with increased participation from Asian American and other community groups.