Bruce Blakeman, the Republican candidate in New York’s gubernatorial race, has proposed a silent protest at the upcoming Sept. 11 memorial ceremony. He urged attendees to turn their backs on New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani if he attends the event.
Blakeman, who lost his nephew in the South Tower on Sept. 11, 2001, equates the memorial to a wake where unwelcomed individuals should not attend. He expressed his thoughts to reporters, stating, “I think it’s completely appropriate if family members ask him not to come, but if he does come, I think there’s a respectful and peaceful way to protest that and I would suggest that people turn their back on the mayor.” As the Nassau County executive, Blakeman stands firm in his view that Mamdani should not partake in the ceremony.
Blakeman argued that Mamdani’s lack of opposition to the phrase “globalize the intifada” raises concerns about his suitability to attend the memorial. “He’s not welcome there because he has yet to say anything in opposition to the global intifada,” Blakeman remarked.
Mamdani intends to attend the event, reaffirming his commitment to standing alongside families, survivors, and first responders affected by the attacks. He emphasized his dedication to honoring those impacted on Sept. 11.
Concerns have arisen over Mamdani’s public stances, prompting a petition on Change.org that requests the National September 11 Memorial & Museum to reconsider his participation. The petition highlights worries about Mamdani’s perceived hostility to shared values of remembrance.
A spokesperson for the 9/11 Memorial & Museum noted that the ceremony remains free of political influence. Government officials across various political affiliations have attended in the past to bear witness, not to make remarks, maintaining a non-partisan approach to honoring the day.
Former New York Gov. George Pataki commented on the situation, emphasizing the uniqueness of Sept. 11 compared to other inclusive events.
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