On Sunday, former mayor Rudy Giuliani called for State Assemblymember Zohran Mamdani to refrain from attending this year’s September 11th memorial—a pointed declaration that drew swift condemnation from local leaders and civil rights advocates across New York City. Giuliani’s comments, delivered at a Lower Manhattan rally, veered into anti-Muslim rhetoric as he questioned Mamdani’s presence at the upcoming ceremonies.

Mamdani, who represents Astoria and is one of the city’s most prominent Muslim elected officials, has stated he intends to participate in Wednesday’s remembrance at the World Trade Center site. In a statement, he emphasized the importance of unity, calling the memorial “a time for all New Yorkers to grieve, reflect, and stand together.” Mayor Eric Adams, whose office confirmed his attendance, also issued a brief statement distancing City Hall from Giuliani’s remarks.

The flare-up comes as New Yorkers prepare for the 25th anniversary of the attacks, with tight security and heightened emotions expected around Ground Zero. On Monday morning, commuters at Fulton Street Station traded stories of where they were on that day, while volunteers readied the Memorial plaza for the influx of families and dignitaries.

Community leaders in Queens and Brooklyn denounced Giuliani’s comments as divisive, with Imam Tariq Rahman of the Astoria Islamic Center telling Made in NYC, “No one should be told they do not belong in our city’s moment of mourning.”

As the city enters a solemn week, the focus for many remains on honoring those lost and reaffirming the shared resilience that defines New York—regardless of background or belief.

Frequently Asked Questions

What did Rudy Giuliani say about Zohran Mamdani and the 9/11 memorial?

Rudy Giuliani urged Assemblymember Zohran Mamdani, a Muslim official, not to attend the upcoming 9/11 memorial, sparking controversy and backlash.

Who is Zohran Mamdani and what was his response to Giuliani’s remarks?

Zohran Mamdani is a Muslim State Assemblymember representing Astoria, and he stated he intends to participate in the 9/11 remembrance, emphasizing unity and the importance of all New Yorkers grieving together.

How did Mayor Eric Adams respond to Giuliani’s comments about the 9/11 memorial?

Mayor Eric Adams distanced himself from Giuliani’s remarks and confirmed that he would attend the memorial.

How did community leaders react to Giuliani’s comments about the 9/11 memorial?

Community leaders, including Imam Tariq Rahman of the Astoria Islamic Center, condemned Giuliani’s remarks as divisive and stated that no one should be told they do not belong at the city’s moment of mourning.

When and where is the 25th anniversary 9/11 memorial taking place?

The 25th anniversary 9/11 memorial is taking place at the World Trade Center site, with heightened security and emotions expected around Ground Zero.

Editorial Transparency. A first draft of this story was produced with AI-assisted writing tools, then reviewed for accuracy and tone by the named editor before publication. More on our process: Editorial Policy.