
Record Crowds Pack Fifth Avenue for New York’s Israel Day Parade
The energy was palpable on Sunday, May 31, as thousands of marchers packed a dozen blocks of Fifth Avenue, waving Israeli flags for New York’s annual Israel Day Parade. Organizers said the turnout was the largest in the event’s six-decade history, a powerful show of solidarity from a community that has felt increasingly besieged. This year’s procession carried the theme “Proud Americans, Proud Zionists.”
The march featured its familiar mix of Jewish nonprofits, schools, and synagogues moving to Israeli music alongside floats sponsored by groups such as Nefesh B’Nefesh, the UJA Federation of New York, and the Maccabiah Games. A long roster of officials joined in, among them New York Governor Kathy Hochul, Attorney General Letitia James, US Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer, and Representative Jerry Nadler, as well as former New York City mayors Eric Adams and Mike Bloomberg. New York Police Commissioner Jessica Tisch took part as an honorary grand marshal.
The parade unfolded amid sharp political division over Israel and without New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani, who became the first city leader in decades to skip the event. Many participants said they were undeterred and had come precisely to stand with their community, with some traveling from out of state to be present. Organizers and security officials expressed gratitude that tens of thousands had gathered safely and proudly in the heart of the city.
(JPost/VFI News)
“Behold, how good and how pleasant it is for brethren to dwell together in unity!” – Psalm 133:1