Republican gubernatorial hopeful Bruce Blakeman stated Wednesday that individuals attending this year's September 11th memorial ceremony should express disapproval towards New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani by turning their backs on him, should he be present. Blakeman, who tragically lost his nephew in the South Tower on September 11, 2001, and currently serves as Nassau County executive, drew a parallel between the memorial and a deeply personal, solemn gathering.
I would equate this to a wake. You don't go to a wake if you're not welcome.
Blakeman explained to reporters, emphasizing that if family members request Mamdani's absence, it is "completely appropriate." He suggested a "respectful and peaceful way to protest" if Mamdani attends, which would be for attendees to "turn their back on the mayor."
Rationale for the Proposed Protest
Blakeman asserted that Mayor Mamdani's refusal to denounce the expression "globalize the intifada" should disqualify him from participating in the ceremony marking the 25th anniversary of the terrorist attacks. Blakeman articulated his view, stating:
He's not welcome there because he has yet to say anything in opposition to the global intifada. As a matter of fact, it seems like he supports that phrase, which is part of the reason why we had the tragedy we had on 9/11.
Mayor Mamdani's Intent to Attend
Despite these public calls for his exclusion, Mayor Mamdani has affirmed his unwavering intention to attend the annual commemoration. Last week, Mamdani issued a statement conveying his commitment:
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 — reaffirming that we will never forget the solemn day...
Victim Families Launch Petition
Mamdani's comments followed the initiation of a petition by relatives of September 11 victims. This Change.org petition urged the National September 11 Memorial & Museum to prevent Mamdani from attending the Lower Manhattan ceremony. The petition highlighted significant concerns:
Concerns have been raised about Mr. Mamdani's public positions, associations, and responses to rhetoric that many perceive as hostile to these shared values.
It respectfully requested that "the organizers carefully consider whether Mr. Mamdani's participation would align with the intention of the ceremony and the expectations of the families most directly affected by the tragedy."
A spokesperson for the memorial also noted the established tradition for public figures at the event. The spokesperson clarified that "Government officials from across the political spectrum, including every sitting president, governor, and mayor since 9/11, have attended the ceremony simply to bear witness — they do not deliver remarks and are asked to remain in a designated area."
Former Governor George Pataki Weighs In
Former New York Governor George Pataki was questioned on Wednesday regarding Mayor Mamdani's potential attendance at the emotionally charged ceremony. Pataki offered a nuanced perspective, remarking:
It's my nature to be inclusive, and that is my instinct, but Sept. 11 is different. So, I may have comments on that.