A federal holiday isn’t seen as a cause for celebration by Abar Qawas, a candidate from Queens backed by New York Mayor-elect Zoran Mamdani.
Qawas, a Palestinian-American activist, said, “Holidays like the Fourth of July, Thanksgiving, Veterans Day, Columbus Day, and now Labor Day are supposed to symbolize victories for our people. However, they actually represent the suppression and destruction of our movement.” This comment was made in an online journal entry dated September 7, 2015.
He went on to express, “Today, I am not celebrating; rather, I’m renewing my commitment to the global movement against death, displacement, and capitalism’s exploitation.”
He further stated, “For this movement, having one day off is not a victory. Liberation goes beyond mere days off; it encompasses everything. Dignity, justice, and equality are the real victories. Don’t misrepresent them.”
Some critics have pointed out that Qawas’s remarks, especially coming from a 33-year-old who moved from Brooklyn to Queens last year, undermine American ideals of equality and freedom as highlighted in foundational documents like the Declaration of Independence.
Conservative Queens Democratic City Councilman Robert Holden voiced concern, saying, “Zoran Mamdani’s backing of a candidate who openly disdains Labor Day and the American Dream is a warning. We should be wary of electing individuals who resent this country and what it embodies.”
Qawas is running for a seat in the 34th District Council, which includes Corona and neighboring areas, as Congresswoman Jessica Gonzalez-Rojas vacates her position to challenge State Sen. Jessica Ramos.
Despite Mamdani’s support, Qawas faces challenges in a predominantly far-left district, and he may contend with a fellow member of the Democratic Socialists of America in the upcoming Democratic primary.
Gonzalez-Rojas has endorsed her chief of staff, Brian Romero. However, the DSA’s election task force has recommended support for Qawas, according to reports.
Qawas has a history of activism, including a past internship with the Council on American-Islamic Relations, remaining active in controversial Muslim philanthropy efforts for over a decade.
Recently, he faced backlash for past comments he made about 9/11, which resurfaced, drawing attention amidst discussions surrounding his campaign and support for Mamdani.
In the comments that raised eyebrows, Qawas stated, “Capitalism, racism, white supremacy, and Islamophobia have all been tools of colonization, stripping resources from others. This ongoing trajectory became evident, especially on 9/11.”
He also mentioned the imbalance in apologies and reparations for historical atrocities, which he found infuriating.
No responses were received from representatives for Mamdani or Qawas regarding these issues.
