NEW YORK (AP) — Mayor Zohran Mamdani introduced a comprehensive plan on Tuesday aimed at combating antisemitism and hate crimes against Jewish individuals in New York City. This initiative seeks to address concerns raised by critics who interpret his strong criticisms of Israel as antisemitic.
The strategy includes increased security funding for synagogues, an emphasis on integrating Jewish history into public school curricula, and a commitment to promote significant Jewish cultural and religious sites in the mayor's governance.
Mamdani stated that the primary objective of the initiative is to "confront the scourge of antisemitism now and in the future," highlighting that Jewish individuals represent approximately 12% of the city's population but account for around 50% of reported hate crimes.
"This is not only unacceptable, it's something we all have an obligation to change. And City Hall will lead the way," he said in a video.
As the city's first Muslim mayor, Mamdani has been an outspoken advocate for Palestinian civil rights and has accused the Israeli government of committing genocide in Gaza. He maintains that his criticism of Israel does not equate to antisemitism, although some opponents argue that his rhetoric has contributed to a sense of insecurity among Jewish residents.
The plan represents Mamdani's most significant effort to alleviate concerns about antisemitism, with a promise to create an environment where Jewish New Yorkers are both safe and celebrated.
City Hall plans to increase grant funding for community organizations focused on hate crime prevention and survivor support. It will also collaborate with public schools to address discrimination complaints and launch public awareness campaigns regarding the city's human rights law and reporting suspected discrimination.
Rabbi Rick Jacobs, president of the Union for Reform Judaism, commended aspects of the mayor's plan but urged Mamdani to temper his rhetoric regarding Israel.
"For this effort to be effective, Mayor Mamdani must also commit to stopping his harsh anti-Israel rhetoric that makes Jewish New Yorkers vulnerable as there are clearly times when antisemitic attacks are fueled by anti-Zionism," Jacobs stated.
Brad Lander, a Jewish ally of Mamdani and former city comptroller, described the initiative as a "thoughtful, strategic combination of education for tolerance, enforcement of civil rights, and investments in safety."
Mamdani faced significant criticism during his campaign last year for not disavowing the phrase "globalize the intifada," which some interpret as a call to violence against Jews. He later clarified that he would discourage the use of the phrase.
He also faced scrutiny for skipping an annual parade honoring Israel, a traditional event for city politicians.
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu criticized Mamdani during a recent address at the United Nations, accusing him of spreading falsehoods about Israel and labeling him as "the antisemitic mayor of New York."
Mamdani has called for Netanyahu's arrest under a warrant from the International Criminal Court alleging war crimes in Gaza.
Ofir Akunis, Israel's consul general in New York, stated that the mayor's stance on Israel has jeopardized the safety of Jewish residents.
"Until you recognize that your language against the Jewish State, which you don't recognize as the homeland of the Jewish people, is the fundamental reason for the rise of antisemitism in New York City, it will continue to increase," Akunis wrote on X.