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NYC First Lady Rama Duwaji Under Fire for Controversial Artwork and Social Media Posts

KVIA•Monday, March 23, 2026 at 9:00 AM•CNN Newsource

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Rama Duwaji, the first lady of New York City, is facing scrutiny over her artwork and past social media activity, which have drawn attention amid her husband's tenure as mayor. The controversy began after her illustration, published in February, was associated with an essay by Susan Abulhawa, known for her inflammatory remarks regarding Israel. While Mayor Zohran Mamdani defended Duwaji, he condemned Abulhawa's rhetoric, stating it was unacceptable. The backlash raises questions about the vetting of Duwaji's work, especially as it relates to her pro-Palestinian advocacy, which has become a focal point of criticism from the Jewish community. Duwaji, an artist from Texas, has expressed her intent to use her platform to support the arts in the city while navigating her husband's political landscape.

Key Details: • Duwaji's artwork was published in February 2023, sparking controversy. • Mayor Mamdani condemned the language used by Abulhawa, distancing Duwaji from her remarks. • Duwaji's past social media posts supporting pro-Palestinian views are now under scrutiny. • Mamdani has faced criticism from the Jewish community due to his and Duwaji's advocacy.

politics art controversy social-media palestine

People & Organizations

TexasNew York CityZohran MamdaniRama DuwajiAnti-Defamation LeagueDiana IslayihSusan Abulhawa

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