Israeli-American comedian misses Passover gathering that Zohran Mamdani was at

Conflict at the Downtown Seder

On Monday night, attendees gathered at Manhattan’s City Winery for the 33rd annual Downtown Seder, led by entrepreneur Michael Dorff. However, one notable performer was missing from the event.

Comedian Modi Rosenfeld, an observant Israeli-American Jew, chose to skip the event after learning that New York City Mayor Zoran Mamdani would be in attendance. His team posted on social media shortly before the event, stating that they were unaware of Mamdani’s presence until that day.

“Until today, we were not informed that Mamdani was participating in this event,” the message conveyed. “Prime Minister Modi will no longer attend.”

Mamdani did attend and later shared a heartfelt message, as described by Dorff.

Mixed Reactions Among Artists

Israeli musician David Broza also attended, performing “If I Had a Hammer,” which, interestingly, raised eyebrows following news of Mamdani’s planned appearance. Fellow comedian Elon Gold publicly urged both Broza and Rosenfeld to reconsider their involvement.

“I don’t like being in Manhattan and sharing space with Mamdani. I believe they’ll cancel after the backlash,” Gold expressed. He emphasized that he felt it was a betrayal of the causes they represent. Gold, who knows both performers personally, encouraged them to prioritize their values.

Rosenfeld’s manager, Leo Veiga, relayed to Gold that they were unaware of Mamdani’s intentions prior to the event.

Controversy Surrounding Mamdani

Dorff, who runs City Winery, discussed the situation in a post, mentioning his discomfort surrounding the developments. He emphasized that the Seder’s mission has always been about unity, particularly in a divisive world. “The most challenging part of diplomacy is truly listening to the other side,” he remarked.

While Dorff expressed respect for Rosenfeld’s decision, he lamented the pressure that led to his absence. He urged for compassion amidst heated exchanges, wishing for people to focus less on aggression and more on unity.

He concluded with a plea for understanding and patience, suggesting that people should engage rather than withdraw: “Stay. Listen. And maybe, just maybe, let some light in.”

As Jews worldwide prepare to celebrate Passover, which begins on the evening of April 1st, the Seder represents a time for storytelling and reflection. Participants recount the Exodus from Egypt and partake in symbolic foods. Some online observers pointed out the irony of Mamdani, an outspoken critic of Israel, speaking at a gathering steeped in such traditions.

Mamdani, who oversees the city with the largest Jewish community in the country, has faced criticism from various quarters for his past remarks and affiliations. He recently stirred controversy by labeling Israel’s actions in Gaza as “genocide,” leading organizations like the American Jewish Committee to push back against his rhetoric, asserting that it incites division and puts communities at risk.