Backlash Against NYC Mayor’s Wife for Retreat Attendance
Rama Duwaji, wife of New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani, has come under fire for her choice to attend an Islamic “spiritual wellness” retreat in Mallorca, Spain, missing local celebrations for the nation’s 250th anniversary, as reported by the New York Post.
On a recent Monday, the Syrian-American artist, who had previously criticized the U.S. on social media, was seen boarding a flight to Mallorca from Newark International Airport.
The retreat, named “Plants Of The Quran” and organized by the for-profit Women’s Sanctuary, offers workshops focused on Islamic texts, art, and spiritual reflection. It reportedly costs $3,400 per guest, and Duwaji is said to be the “artist in residence” for the event.
When she was spotted at the airport, critics voiced their disapproval online, including conservative commentator Arynne Wexler, who shared photos of her and remarked on the irony of her vacation amid Mamdani’s recent request for New Yorkers to lower their air conditioning usage.
“Funny how when [Zohran Mamdani] was telling New Yorkers to lower their AC his wife Rama Duwaji was boarding a flight to party in Mallorca,” Wexler wrote, adding that she couldn’t tag Duwaji because her account had been deleted following controversial posts.
Councilwoman Joann Ariola (R-N.Y.) expressed her discontent, saying, “Nothing says ‘America 250’ quite like skipping the celebration for a Mediterranean vacation.” Councilman Frank Morano (R-N.Y.) echoed similar sentiments, noting that Duwaji’s choice to be abroad during such a significant civic occasion was disappointing.
Despite Duwaji’s apology regarding the trip, previously deleted social media posts have resurfaced, which included remarks seen as racist and homophobic, along with support for militant groups against U.S. service members.
This situation follows Mamdani’s recent request for New Yorkers to adjust their air conditioners amid a heatwave, while reports indicated that parts of City Hall were much cooler than recommended.
