- Thousands of 9/11 victims' families are asking New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani not to attend this year's solemn remembrance ceremony.
- An online petition has already collected more than 16,000 signatures.
- Concerns have been raised about Mamdani's public positions and associations, which many perceive as hostile.
- Giovanni Galante, a 9/11 widow, stated that having Mamdani at the ceremony would show disrespect to their family members.
- John Feal, a 9/11 advocate, suggested that Mamdani should remain in City Hall until he does something proactive for the 9/11 community.
- Mayor Mamdani stated, "I will proudly honor the families, the survivors, the first responders forever impacted by that horrific terror attack by standing alongside them at this year's 9/11 commemoration."
- The 9/11 Memorial & Museum emphasized that they have worked to keep the commemoration free of politics.
New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani is under fire from families of 9/11 victims who are petitioning against his attendance at the 25th anniversary remembrance ceremony. The petition has garnered over 16,000 signatures, reflecting deep-seated concerns about his public positions and associations.
Critics argue that Mamdani's presence would disrespect the memory of those lost. “For me, myself, I feel anyone who attends this 25th pivotal anniversary for us, we just want a little time for ourselves,” said a family member, emphasizing the desire for a solemn remembrance.4
Others echoed similar sentiments, with John Feal, a 9/11 advocate, stating, “Until he does something proactive for the 9/11 community, he should just sit there in City Hall.” The backlash intensified when Benjamin Netanyahu accused Mamdani of fostering hate, further complicating the situation.5
In response, Mamdani expressed his commitment to honor the victims, stating, “I will proudly honor the families, the survivors, the first responders forever impacted by that horrific terror attack by standing alongside them at this year's 9/11 commemoration.” The 9/11 Memorial & Museum has attempted to keep the commemoration free of politics, highlighting the sensitive nature of the event.
As the anniversary approaches, the tension surrounding Mamdani's potential attendance continues to grow, reflecting broader societal divisions.
“An online petition has gathered over 16,000 signatures, with 9/11 families expressing concerns about Mamdani's perceived hostility. The 9/11 Memorial & Museum has emphasized their commitment to keeping the commemoration free of politics amid these tensions.”
CBS News
