NYC Mayor Celebrates Legal Aid Society's 150th Anniversary, Condemns Anti-Muslim Protest

Mamdani issues proclamation honoring Legal Aid, responds to protest outside Gracie Mansion

Published on Mar. 8, 2026

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In his first 100 days as mayor of New York City, Zohran Mamdani celebrated the 150th anniversary of the Legal Aid Society, issuing a proclamation applauding the organization's commitment to providing legal services to underserved communities. However, Mamdani also had to respond to an anti-Muslim protest that took place outside his residence, Gracie Mansion, where suspicious devices were thrown.

Why it matters

The Legal Aid Society has been a vital resource for New Yorkers who cannot afford private legal counsel, fighting for the rights of immigrants, families, tenants, and individuals. Mamdani's recognition of this milestone underscores his administration's focus on equity and access to justice. The anti-Muslim protest, meanwhile, highlights the ongoing challenges Mamdani faces as New York City's first Muslim mayor, including threats and Islamophobia.

The details

Mayor Mamdani issued an official proclamation on Sunday celebrating the Legal Aid Society's 150th anniversary, applauding the organization's longstanding commitment to serving New Yorkers in need of legal assistance. The proclamation kicks off a monthslong celebration of Legal Aid, starting with the opening of an exhibit at The New York Historical titled 'Delivering Justice: 150 Years of The Legal Aid Society.' Separately, Mamdani and NYPD Commissioner Jessica Tisch responded to a Saturday protest outside Gracie Mansion, where several individuals threw 'suspicious' smoking devices. The protest was held by far-right influencer Jake Lang and was called the 'Crusade Against Islamification.' Mamdani's press secretary called the protest 'despicable and Islamophobic.' The NYPD arrested six individuals at the protest and counterprotest, including two men whom police suspect threw the suspicious devices.

  • On Sunday, March 7, Mayor Mamdani issued a proclamation celebrating the Legal Aid Society's 150th anniversary.
  • On Saturday, March 6, the 'Crusade Against Islamification' protest took place outside Gracie Mansion.

The players

Zohran Mamdani

The mayor of New York City, who is the city's first-ever Muslim mayor.

Twyla Carter

The Attorney-in-Chief and Chief Executive Office of The Legal Aid Society.

Jake Lang

A far-right influencer who organized the 'Crusade Against Islamification' protest outside Gracie Mansion.

Jessica Tisch

The NYPD Commissioner, who responded to the protest outside Gracie Mansion.

Sorffly Davius

An NYPD officer who died following a medical episode while deployed in Kuwait as part of the U.S. military effort against Iran.

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What they’re saying

“On the occasion of its sesquicentennial, I am pleased to recognize this time-honored nonprofit organization that has fought by my side to help make New York a more affordable, equitable, inclusive, and just city for all who live here.”

— Zohran Mamdani, Mayor of New York City (amNewYork)

“For a century and a half, we have stood alongside immigrants, families, tenants, and individuals who cannot afford to hire private counsel — fighting to ensure that justice is a right, not a privilege. As we mark this milestone, we recommit to advancing dignity, equity, and access to justice for the communities we serve.”

— Twyla Carter, Attorney-in-Chief and Chief Executive Office of The Legal Aid Society (amNewYork)

“Thankfully, the Mayor and the First Lady are both safe, though the events are a stark reminder of the threats they both face regularly.”

— Joe Calvello, Press Secretary to Mayor Zohran Mamdani (amNewYork)

What’s next

The NYPD is continuing to investigate the suspicious devices thrown during the protest outside Gracie Mansion, and the mayor's office has vowed to take steps to address the ongoing threats faced by the mayor and his family.

The takeaway

Mayor Mamdani's celebration of the Legal Aid Society's 150th anniversary underscores his administration's commitment to equity and access to justice, while his response to the anti-Muslim protest highlights the challenges he faces as New York City's first Muslim mayor. The city must continue to address issues of Islamophobia and ensure the safety of its elected officials and all residents.