BREAKING: A coalition of Jewish organizations has sharply criticized the Anti-Defamation League (ADL) for its newly launched Mamdani Monitor, labeling it “blatantly Islamophobic.” The groups have united in a letter condemning the ADL’s actions as a direct attack on New York City’s mayor-elect, Zohran Mamdani, who is the city’s first Muslim mayor.
The letter, which comes just days after Mamdani’s election victory, expresses solidarity with the mayor-elect and emphasizes a commitment to inclusivity. “NYC Jewish communities repudiate the ADL’s blatant Islamophobia: You won’t divide us from our neighbors,” the letter states. It highlights a collective resolve to foster a city free from hate, urging unity among diverse communities.
The ADL announced its plan to monitor Mamdani’s policies and appointments, citing concerns about safety for the Jewish community. Additionally, the organization is establishing a citywide tip line for reporting antisemitic incidents. According to ADL officials, this tip line is intended to be a “hyper-focused resource for New Yorkers” to report antisemitic acts occurring in various public spaces.
Signatories of the condemnation letter include influential groups such as IfNotNow, J Street NYC, and Bend the Arc: Jewish Action. They have voiced their intention to collaborate with Mamdani while rejecting the ADL’s claims of representing all Jewish individuals. “Regardless of how we voted, we stand firmly against the Islamophobic and racist attacks from institutions claiming to represent our communities,” the letter asserts.
Bend the Arc has also initiated a petition titled “American Jews Reject the ADL’s Racist Mamdani Monitor,” emphasizing their disapproval of what they see as false accusations of antisemitism against progressive leaders. Mamdani’s relationships with Jewish communities during his campaign further underscore his commitment to inclusivity, as he garnered support from several Jewish groups and a prominent Orthodox rabbi.
Mamdani has been vocal about his criticisms of Israel regarding its actions in Gaza, where over 69,000 Palestinians have reportedly lost their lives amid ongoing violence. He has previously stated intentions to arrest Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu if he visits New York, though he later modified those statements.
In response to the backlash, ADL CEO Jonathan Greenblatt defended the Mamdani Monitor, arguing that it aims to address potential antisemitic narratives. He stated, “Mayor-Elect Mamdani has promoted antisemitic narratives… that could influence his administration.” This has drawn ire from various civil rights advocates, including former Human Rights Watch head Kenneth Roth, who labeled the ADL’s actions as “Awful scaremongering.”
As this situation unfolds, the community is watching closely. The response from Mamdani and the actions of the ADL could set significant precedents for interfaith relations in New York City and beyond. The coalition of Jewish groups is calling for unity, stating, “Together, we can help build a city grounded in justice, dignity, and care for every New Yorker.”
This story continues to develop, and further updates are expected as both sides respond to the growing tensions. Readers are encouraged to stay informed as this critical issue affects the landscape of New York City’s political and social climate.
