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Mamdani Names Phylisa Wisdom to Lead NYC Antisemitism Office

The move follows an NYPD-reported surge in antisemitic incidents, signaling a shift from Adams-era policy.

Overview

  • Progressive and some mainstream Jewish leaders, including Brad Lander and Amy Spitalnick, endorsed the pick, citing her relationships and focus on safety.
  • Orthodox and conservative figures criticized her past work with Yaffed and her opposition to codifying the IHRA definition, questioning her trust with Hasidic communities.
  • NYPD recorded 31 alleged antisemitic hate crimes in January 2026, a 182% year-over-year increase, after Jews made up most reported hate-crime victims in 2025.
  • Wisdom will replace Adams appointee Moshe Davis, who warned that parts of the community may feel excluded and emphasized the need for operational capacity over symbolism.
  • Mamdani retained the office but rescinded Adams-era orders adopting IHRA and restricting BDS, as City Hall faces pressure to deliver effective interagency coordination and outreach.