On August 4, 2023, Zohran Mamdani, a Democratic mayoral candidate for New York City and former New York State Assemblyman, addressed the Democratic Socialists of America (DSA) convention in Chicago, delivering a keynote speech that resonated with his political journey and values. Woven into his address was Mamdani’s reflection on co-founding the first chapter of Students for Justice in Palestine (SJP) at his school, emphasizing that the fight for Palestinian liberation has been a cornerstone of his political ideology.
Mamdani’s connection to the DSA is particularly noteworthy due to the organization’s endorsement of the Boycott, Divestment, Sanctions (BDS) movement, which he viewed as a significant alignment with his beliefs. He recalled a critical moment in 2017 while working on Khader El-Yateem’s city council campaign, suggesting that this experience was transformative for him. With humor, he quipped that anyone who did not applaud for El-Yateem might as well be labeled a Zionist, demonstrating his use of jest to engage his audience while underscoring the earnestness of his message.
As he articulated his political design, Mamdani expressed the challenges he faced in reconciling his dedication to Palestinian liberation with the broader political discourse prevalent in New York City. He highlighted the DSA as an organization that genuinely embodies socialist principles, showcasing its commitment to social justice without exceptions.
Mamdani advocated for legislative measures aimed at ending the United States’ subsidization of what he termed “war crimes” in Israel and the occupied territories, reinforcing his call for accountability and ethical governance. He concluded his speech with a powerful affirmation of solidarity and sincerity, embodying the principles that he believes should guide the movement for justice.
This address not only spotlighted Mamdani’s personal convictions but also reaffirmed the DSA’s role as a political entity embracing critical issues of our time. With a growing discourse around social justice, Mamdani’s advocacy adds a voice for the marginalized, inspiring a new generation to engage in grassroots political movements.