New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani signed executive orders on September 5, 2026, ahead of the 25th anniversary of the September 11 attacks, designating the date a citywide day of remembrance and service. The orders also included measures to strengthen efforts to prevent future terrorist threats, according to a statement from City Hall.
During the signing ceremony, Mamdani handed a ceremonial pen to NYPD Commissioner Jessica Tisch, who then passed it to Ramzi Kassem, the mayor’s chief counsel. Kassem previously represented Ahmed al-Darbi, a convicted al Qaeda member who pleaded guilty to war-crime charges tied to al Qaeda plots against commercial ships. Al-Darbi is the brother-in-law of Khalid al-Mihdhar, one of the hijackers aboard American Airlines Flight 77, which crashed into the Pentagon on September 11, 2001, killing 184 people.
Public and Political Response
The handoff of the pen has drawn significant criticism from public figures, advocacy groups, and social media users. Critics argue that the gesture undermined the solemnity of the 9/11 remembrance and disrespected the victims and first responders. On X (formerly Twitter), podcaster Benny Johnson wrote, "This is a slap in the face to victims ahead of the 25th anniversary of 9/11."
Former New York state Senate candidate Maria Danzilo stated on X, "I sincerely hope the rest of the country understands just how hard it is to be in New York City with this mayor, and especially as we’re approaching this most serious and solemn day for NYC: 9/11."
City Hall’s Statement
City Hall did not immediately respond to requests for comment on the criticism. However, a spokesperson for the mayor’s office previously told the New York Post that Kassem attended the signing ceremony as part of the mayor’s executive team but did not provide further details on the rationale behind the pen’s handoff.
Background on Ramzi Kassem
Ramzi Kassem is a professor of law at CUNY School of Law and has represented high-profile terrorism suspects, including al-Darbi. His legal work has included cases involving detainees held at the Guantanamo Bay detention camp. Kassem’s involvement in the 9/11 remembrance ceremony has reignited debates about the balance between legal representation and public perception, particularly in the context of national tragedies.
Historical Context of 9/11 Remembrance in NYC
The 25th anniversary of the September 11 attacks has prompted heightened scrutiny of public figures’ participation in remembrance events. In recent weeks, families of 9/11 victims have gathered thousands of signatures on an online petition urging Mayor Mamdani to refrain from attending anniversary ceremonies. The petition reflects ongoing tensions between political leaders and victim advocacy groups regarding the appropriate role of public officials in memorial events.
Policy Implications
The executive orders signed by Mamdani also included provisions to enhance the city’s counterterrorism efforts. These measures aim to address ongoing threats while honoring the legacy of those lost in the 2001 attacks. The orders did not specify how the pen handoff related to these broader policy goals.
Ongoing Developments
The criticism of Mamdani’s actions has prompted discussions among city officials and community leaders about the appropriate ways to commemorate 9/11 while navigating political and social sensitivities. No further statements have been issued by the mayor’s office regarding the pen handoff or the broader backlash.