Fran Chilwell :
In a powerful show of solidarity, hundreds gathered for the United Against Hate Press Conference and Unity Rally on December 21, 2025, outside the office of Councilwoman Vickie Paladino in Whitestone, Queens, to denounce a recent Islamophobic statement made by the councilmember. The rally, organized by over two dozen interfaith and civic organizations, served as a reminder that hate has no home in New York City.
The controversy arose after a now widely condemned social media post by Councilwoman Paladino, in which she appeared to call for the expulsion and denaturalization of Muslims from Western countries—suggesting that Muslims are an inherent threat. Her comments sparked immediate backlash across the city, particularly from Muslim New Yorkers and their allies.
In response, faith leaders, elected officials, and community members joined hands at the Unity Rally, reaffirming their commitment to pluralism, justice, and human dignity.
Imam Muhammad Shahidullah, Queens County liaison of the NYS Interfaith Council, stood before the diverse crowd and offered heartfelt words that echoed throughout the rally. “We are gathered today because words matter,” he said. “When words are used to dehumanize an entire faith community, they do not remain words; they become permission for hate, fear, and violence.”
He continued, “The recent post by an elected official… is not only false—it is deeply un-American. Muslims are doctors, teachers, first responders, veterans, and small business owners. We love this country, we contribute to it, and we are part of its moral fabric.”
The rally included representation from Christian, Jewish, Sikh, and Hindu communities, as well as civic advocacy groups including CAIR-NY, Save the People USA, One Park Black Association, Sikh Council, and many others. Their collective presence sent a clear message: bigotry from any public office will not be tolerated.
Organizers emphasized that free speech must come with accountability, especially when that speech puts entire communities at risk. Signs with slogans like “Hate Has No Home in NYC” and “Faith Over Fear” were visible throughout the crowd.
The rally closed with calls for unity and a demand that elected officials uphold the values of the diverse communities they represent. As Imam Shahidullah reminded the crowd, “New York City is strongest when we stand together—Muslim, Jewish, Christian, Sikh, Hindu, and people of all beliefs—against hate in all its forms.”
This gathering was not just a reaction to one post, but a broader affirmation of the city’s unwavering stance against Islamophobia and all forms of hate.
