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Why Did NYC Mayor Zohran Mamdani Mention Umar Khalid?

On July 16, New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani made these remarks during the Nelson Mandela Foundation's Global Leadership Forum in New York ahead of Nelson Mandela Day (July 18).⁠ In his speech, Mamdani repeatedly referred to Nelson Mandela by his clan name, "Madiba," a term of respect widely used in South Africa.⁠ Drawing parallels between historical and present-day struggles, Mamdani questioned why Umar Khalid "enters his sixth year of captivity in Delhi." ⁠ ⁠ The remarks came as part of a broader speech on solidarity, democracy, and political repression, in which Mamdani also spoke about Palestine, immigrants, and anti-apartheid activism.