Discover What Sets This Seder Apart from the Rest
On March 31, 2026, City Winery hosted a Downtown seder that drew an unusual mix of music, politics, and debate. The event featured Zohran Mamdani, New York’s first Muslim mayor, as a high-profile attendee and speaker.
City Winery owner Michael Dorf has run these gatherings for more than 30 years. Dorf founded the Knitting Factory in 1987 and helped shape New York’s arts scene.
Musical lineup and program highlights
The evening blended performers from several genres. The program combined indie rock, world music, and returning personalities.
- Indie rock trio Betty
- David Broza
- Jesse Malin
- Meg Okura
- Yola
- Stephen Dubner, economist and podcaster
- Al Franken, video reprise singing “Go Down Moses”
The event continued a tradition that previously included Laurie Anderson, Philip Glass, Lou Reed, and Peter Yarrow. Guests could discover what sets this seder apart by its mix of artistic and civic voices.
Political figures and tensions
Several political figures joined the program. Don Lemon, Council Speaker Julie Menin, and former Comptroller Brad Lander all appeared.
Not all attendees welcomed the mayor. Orthodox comedian Modi Rosenfeld withdrew after Mamdani’s presence became known.
Mamdani’s remarks
Mamdani used the broken middle matzo as a central metaphor. He called it a reminder of historical ruptures and present fractures.
He condemned a rising tide of antisemitism and urged policies that ensure dignity and rest for all New Yorkers. He closed with Leonard Cohen’s line about cracks letting light in.
He faced heckling early on but handled interruptions with composure. His remarks received warm applause by the end.
Wider context and policy disputes
The seder occurred just before a public budget showdown between the mayor and the City Council. The council released an alternative budget plan without new taxes on the wealthy or higher property taxes.
The mayor called that proposal unrealistic and said it would force service cuts. He also released a sharply worded video criticizing Council Speaker Menin’s plan.
The speaker had just shepherded passage of a buffer-zone bill around houses of worship. The vote was 44–5 and had veto-proof margins. The legislation grew out of protests outside Park East Synagogue in November.
Voices of conscience
Brad Lander spoke at the seder about his anguish since October 7. He criticized Israel’s destruction of schools and hospitals in Gaza.
On the same day, the Israeli Knesset passed a law allowing the death penalty for Palestinians convicted of killings labeled as “acts of terrorism.” That development added urgency to speakers’ remarks.
Audience moments and reactions
Attendees included both supporters and critics. A confrontation in the crowd underscored the event’s polarizing mix.
Some audience members questioned journalists about endorsements and political loyalties. The intermingling of culture and controversy marked the night.
D.D. Guttenplan reported on the event for Filmogaz.com. He served as an editor until 2025 and has worked as a correspondent and author.
