Mamdani’s New York wants Jews to shut up. We choose defiance
“I am a Jew.” Those four words should be an ordinary declaration of identity. At a prayer vigil outside the New York mayor’s office on Sept. 18, they became a statement of resolve.
TL;DR
- Jewish New Yorkers held a prayer vigil outside City Hall to affirm their identity and belonging.
- Rabbi Chaim Steinmetz emphasized standing with resolve and pride in one's Jewish identity.
- Concerns were raised about the safety and confidence of expressing Jewish identity in public, including wearing religious symbols.
- Actor Michael Rapaport criticized Mayor Mamdani, calling him divisive and questioning his stance on Israel's right to exist.
- Israel's Ambassador to the UN, Danny Danon, criticized Mayor Mamdani's rhetoric and actions, stating it incites hostility towards Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.
- Danon suggested Mayor Mamdani should be arrested, not Netanyahu, and emphasized that Netanyahu would address the UN General Assembly despite threats.
- The article calls for responsible city leadership that protects Jewish constituents' belonging and promotes safety, rather than contributing to intimidation or division.
- The core message is that "I am a Jew" should be a declaration of belonging, not a statement requiring defense.