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Zohran Mamdani, the Democratic mayoral nominee, has a history of involvement with radical pro-Palestinian groups during his college years. In 2013, at Bowdoin College, he co-founded a chapter of Students for Justice for Palestine. This organization was linked to similar activism, with his father, Mahmood Mamdani, delivering a keynote at their 2011 national conference.

Mahmood Mamdani, a Columbia University professor, has publicly expressed critical views of Israel, comparing its policies to apartheid South Africa and suggesting it is worse in certain aspects. He also claimed that Israel admires U.S. dealings with indigenous populations, noting that Zionists see American history as inspirational in this context.

Supporters and critics alike point out that Zohran’s political rise is intertwined with his family’s longstanding activism. His father’s involvement with the Gaza Tribunal, which accuses Israel of genocide, and his inclusion on a “Professors to Avoid” list by Campus Watch, an organization critical of Middle East Studies, have drawn attention to the Mamdani family’s influence and ideological stance.

During his college years, Mamdani was active in promoting anti-Israel sentiments, supporting events such as lectures critical of Israeli policies and advocating for boycotts of Israel. The Bowdoin SJP maintained active social media accounts until 2016, continuing to push pro-Palestinian advocacy.

In recent years, organizations like Students for Justice in Palestine and American Muslims for Palestine, which have connections to Mamdani’s past activities, have participated in nationwide protests, some of which have led to lawsuits related to violence and terrorism allegations. His father’s writings, including controversial views on terrorism and violence, have also been highlighted, drawing criticism and social media scrutiny.

As Mamdani advances in his political career, his family’s historical activism and associated positions continue to be focal points for debate and media coverage.