Pro-Israel Activist Calls for Boycott of Jewish Heritage Event

A notable pro-Israel figure is urging other Jewish leaders to skip a Jewish heritage gathering organized by Mayor Zoran Mamdani set for next Monday at Gracie Mansion.

Dov Hikind, who founded Americans Against Anti-Semitism, has criticized Mamdani and his wife, artist Rama Dowaj, for what he sees as their antagonism towards the Jewish community, citing numerous contentious comments and social media posts.

“The situation in this city is spiraling out of control. There are attacks on Jews, and there’s a pervasive fear within the community,” Hikind stated. He has a long history of serving in the state Legislature, representing Orthodox Jews in southern Brooklyn for 35 years.

“I’m urging Jewish leaders to refrain from attending this event. Stand up for yourselves, take pride and have self-respect,” he mentioned in a video slated for online release.

An invitation from the mayor’s office described the event on May 18 as “a Shavuot celebration honoring Jewish Heritage Month,” featuring a “celebratory kosher dairy menu.”

However, Mamdani’s relationship with certain segments of the Jewish community appears to be fraught.

He has expressed support for the contentious Boycott, Divestment and Sanctions (BDS) movement against Israel, alleging that the Jewish state is committing genocide amid the conflict with Hamas in Gaza, which escalated after the group’s attack on October 7, 2023. He also associates with individuals accused of promoting anti-Semitic views.

First Lady Dowaj has faced backlash for social media posts that reportedly praised Palestinian terrorists and criticized Israel.

Hikind asserted, “I know that many of you find comfort in having a Jewish police chief.”

Mamdani notably missed the New York Jewish Community Relations Council’s annual gala at the Plaza Hotel, where Governor Kathy Hochul, State Attorney General Letitia James, and local auditors were present. Police Chief Jessica Tisch, who is Jewish, also spoke at the event.

Hikind alleged that the mayor and his family align with radical Islamist views that threaten America and the Jewish community. While acknowledging that Jewish leaders must confront Mamdani’s role as mayor, he indicated there’s no obligation to endorse him.

“There’s no reason to attend Gracie Mansion for a photo op when it undermines the entire Jewish community. This is an opportunity to take a stand as leaders. You don’t need to be at Gracie Mansion just for a cheese danish,” Hikind remarked.

During her remarks at the JCC, Tisch highlighted her Jewish heritage, emphasizing that Jews face global persecution, yet she reaffirmed a commitment to combating anti-Semitism and hatred. “I take this responsibility seriously. It influences my work to ensure safety for all communities,” she concluded, receiving applause.

No immediate response was available from Mamdani’s office regarding these developments.