NYC Mayoral Candidate Faces Backlash Over Columbus Day Stance, Allegations of Antisemitism
New York, NY – Democratic mayoral nominee Zohran Mamdani is facing mounting criticism from Italian-American leaders over his stance on Columbus Day and accusations of fueling antisemitism, possibly jeopardizing his bid for New York City’s highest office. The controversy centers on Mamdani’s support for replacing the federal holiday with Indigenous Peoples’ Day and his past actions perceived as disrespectful to Italian-American heritage.The Columbus Day holiday, traditionally a celebration of Italian-American heritage as well as the historical figure, has increasingly become a point of contention in recent years. growing awareness of the violence, enslavement, and forced religious conversions inflicted upon Indigenous populations during Christopher Columbus’ voyages has led to a nationwide re-evaluation of the holiday. Many cities and municipalities are now choosing to commemorate Indigenous Peoples’ Day alongside, or instead of, Columbus Day.Angelo Vivolo, president of the Columbus Heritage Coalition, has been a vocal critic of Mamdani. He argues that Mamdani’s support for dismantling Columbus memorials and ending the Columbus Day holiday is “divisive rhetoric” that will “deepen the fractures in our city.” Vivolo points to a 2020 social media post where Mamdani was photographed giving the middle finger to a Columbus statue as evidence of his disrespect. “These are symbols that hold deep meaning for many, especially within the Italian-American community,” Vivolo stated in a letter urging Mamdani to reconsider his position.the criticism extends beyond the Columbus Day issue. Vivolo also accused Mamdani of contributing to the rise of antisemitism by initially refusing to condemn the phrase “globalize the intifada.” This phrase, often used in pro-Palestinian protests, is viewed by many as a call for violence against Jewish people. Mamdani has since stated he woudl “discourage” the use of the term, but critics argue this is insufficient.
“You may disagree with actions by countries,” Vivolo said, “But discrimination against people from those countries who live here is an entirely different matter. Our great and diverse city can only succeed if we are respectful and tolerant of racial, religious and ethnic differences.”
The columbus Heritage coalition and other Italian-American leaders recently convened to discuss their concerns regarding Mamdani’s positions.They are threatening to rally support behind other candidates – including Republican Curtis Sliwa, former Governor Andrew Cuomo, and current Mayor Eric Adams, who are running as independents – if Mamdani does not “drop the hate, retract his hurtful remarks, curb his divisive behavior and reach out to all constituencies.”
Mamdani secured a convincing victory in the Democratic primary in June using a ranked-choice voting system. However,the general election in November promises a more competitive landscape. His campaign has not yet responded to requests for comment on the recent criticisms.