Rabbis Support Zoran for NYC Mayor
A coalition of social justice rabbis, including a transgender rabbi previously expelled from an event by President Biden, has launched an ad encouraging Jewish voters to back Zoran Mamdani in the upcoming New York mayoral election. This rabbi, Abby Stein, was notably involved in a controversial incident where she disrupted a speech by Jill Biden to advocate for a ceasefire in Gaza, leading to her removal from the event.
Stein joined three other rabbis—Emily Cohen, Miriam Grossman, and Rachel Goldenberg—in a social media campaign organized by Jews for Racial and Economic Justice (JFREJ). The ad emphasizes a shared belief that “all people have the right to thrive,” aligning with Zoran’s views.
In a separate article after the 2024 Pride Month celebrations, Stein detailed how she and a former White House official interrupted the first lady’s speech. This incident occurred against a backdrop of heightened tensions, including Stein’s attendance at a United Nations event alongside Iranian officials shortly before missile strikes on Israel.
Critically, the event also featured members of Neturei Karta, a sect that opposes Israel’s existence. It’s worth noting that some people may find this connection troubling.
Cohen’s background is quite diverse, engaging in various forms of educational and social activities. Among her initiatives, she has spoken out during social justice movements, even positioning herself between protesters and police during protests in 2020.
Grossman has made headlines with her progressive viewpoints, such as advocating for abortion rights from a Jewish perspective and raising awareness about environmental issues impacting indigenous communities. The fourth rabbi, Goldenberg, runs a practice that seeks to establish a progressive Jewish community focused on spirituality and social justice.
The ads highlight a clash of ideologies as some critics, including Congresswoman Elise Stefanik, have labeled Mamdani’s views as extreme. The complex landscape of social justice within different faith communities continues to evoke mixed reactions.
