Police responded Thursday after pro-Palestinian protesters briefly disrupted the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade.
21 protesters were arrested by the New York City Police Department (NYPD). According to Go to ABC7.
Protesters jumped barricades and blocked the McDonald's float just after 9:30 a.m.
Video footage showed protesters standing on the road holding white banners calling for an arms embargo. Activists sat in and chanted “Free, free Palestine!”
Breaking news: Macy's parade is interrupted by 30 protesters on New York City's Thanksgiving parade route
Protesters blocked the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade by jumping over barricades and chanting “Liberate Palestine!”
Multiple arrests by New York City Police Department, New York City mayor declared “intolerance” yesterday… pic.twitter.com/6IZHZTrLwn
— Olya Scooter Caster 🛴 (@ScooterCasterNY) November 28, 2024
“Get out of here!” shouted one member of the crowd during a profanity-laced confrontation with a pro-Palestinian activist.
The crowd booed and cheered the protesters as police removed them and the parade resumed.
On Wednesday, New York City Mayor Eric Adams said there would be zero tolerance. policy against those who disrupt the parade. “And I want to take the time to say to the glitches who believe they will disrupt the parade: That will not happen. Just as we responded last year, we will do everything in our power to We are going to lead those who try to disrupt the parade,” Adams said. (Related: 'Shame on you!': Pro-Palestinian protester Heckel Gianos, politician outside dinner with White House correspondents)
“And while we acknowledge that the city respects peaceful protests, we will not tolerate any violence or disruption at this parade,” the mayor continued. “Therefore, no interference is allowed.''
Pro-Palestinian demonstrators disrupted the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade, blocking its route and resulting in multiple arrests.
— Postmillennial (@TPostMillennial) November 28, 2024
According to ABC 7, the protesters caused a delay of about five minutes. Authorities have not yet charged anyone.
This is not the first time a parade has been interrupted by protesters.
About 30 pro-Palestinian protesters took to the streets during the 2023 Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade. The protests were also short-lived, as demonstrators were arrested by police. (Related: Pro-Palestinian protesters march through the streets of New York City)
