A resurfaced photo of New York City mayoral candidate Zohran Mamdani has ignited significant backlash, particularly from the Italian-American community. The image shows Mamdani raising his middle finger at a statue of Christopher Columbus in Astoria, New York, originally posted in June 2020 with the caption, “Take it down.” This provocative gesture has drawn criticism from individuals and organizations representing Italian-Americans.
Following the photo’s resurgence, Mamdani’s actions have been labeled disrespectful by figures like Angelo Vivolo, president of the Columbus Heritage Coalition. Vivolo stated, “If you offend one community, you offend all communities,” emphasizing the need for mutual respect among different ethnic groups.
Mamdani’s controversial stance is further illustrated by a social media poll he conducted, asking his followers who should be honored instead of Columbus. The options included Tony Bennett and Sacco & Vanzetti, with the latter winning. Sacco and Vanzetti, known for their anarcho-communist beliefs, were executed in 1927, and their selection has fueled outrage among Italian-Americans who see it as an affront to their heritage.
Joseph Scelsa, founder of the Italian American Museum, expressed concerns about Mamdani’s approach, suggesting that alienating such a significant portion of New York City’s population—around 8%—could be detrimental to his political aspirations. He remarked, “It’s not inclusive. It’s exclusionary. Who’s to say who is a hero?”
The backlash has also come from conservative voices on social media, with actor Joe Piscopo and YouTuber Joey Salads making pointed comments about Mamdani’s views. Journalist Megan Basham criticized the left for what she considers ingratitude, while former Trump official Ezra A. Cohen emphasized the contributions of Italians and Catholics in shaping the nation.
As the general election approaches, the controversy surrounding Mamdani’s views on Columbus and Italian heritage will likely continue to shape the political discourse. This ongoing debate serves as a reminder of the complexities surrounding identity and respect in a diverse society, highlighting the balance political candidates must navigate to connect with various communities while staying true to their value.
