(New York, New York) – Rama Duwaji, the wife of New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani, is facing criticism after illustrating an essay by Palestinian-American writer Susan Abulhawa, a figure who has been widely condemned by critics for past statements about Israel.
The controversy centers on artwork Duwaji created for Abulhawa’s essay titled “A Trail of Soap,” which was published online and accompanied by Duwaji’s illustration. The collaboration quickly drew attention on social media, with critics accusing the NYC First Lady of working with a writer they say has promoted antisemitic rhetoric and praised the Oct. 7 Hamas attack on Israel.
Abulhawa is a novelist and activist known for her outspoken criticism of Israel and support for Palestinian causes. Some Jewish organizations and commentators have strongly condemned several of her past remarks, arguing they cross into antisemitism. Supporters, however, say Abulhawa’s comments represent political criticism of Israel and advocacy for Palestinian rights.
The backlash comes as Mayor Mamdani’s administration has already faced scrutiny over issues related to Israel, antisemitism, and campus protests since he took office earlier this year.
Neither Duwaji nor City Hall has publicly responded to the criticism surrounding the illustration. It is also unclear whether the collaboration was connected in any way to the mayor’s office or was strictly a personal artistic project.
The episode has added another flashpoint to the ongoing debate in New York City politics over speech, activism, and the line between criticism of Israel and antisemitism.
