Actress says the memorial event should remain focused on victims

Patricia Heaton, best known for her role as Debra Barone on Everybody Loves Raymond, has joined a growing controversy surrounding New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani and the upcoming 25th anniversary remembrance ceremony at Ground Zero.

The actress, who was in New York City during the September 11 attacks, shared a petition created by families of 9/11 victims calling for Mamdani to be excluded from the memorial event. The petition has attracted tens of thousands of signatures.

Heaton recalls her experience on September 11

Heaton previously spoke about being in New York on the morning of the attacks, describing the experience as “terrifying” while reflecting on the tragedy and its lasting impact.

In a 2024 social media post, she compared the trauma of 9/11 with the suffering caused by the October 7 Hamas attack in Israel, drawing strong reactions from both supporters and critics.

Petition sparks political debate

The petition’s organizers argue that Mamdani’s past statements and associations make him an inappropriate figure to appear at a ceremony honoring the nearly 3,000 people killed in the 9/11 attacks.

Critics have pointed to several issues, including his response to the phrase “globalize the intifada” and his connections with controversial figures, as reasons for their opposition.

Controversy over Ramzi Kassem appointment

Another point of criticism involves Ramzi Kassem, a lawyer selected for a senior legal role connected to Mamdani’s administration.

Kassem previously represented Ahmed al-Darbi, a former Guantanamo detainee who pleaded guilty in a terrorism-related case. Supporters of Kassem argue that defending clients accused of serious crimes is part of the legal system, while critics say the appointment raises concerns because of the nature of the case.

Mamdani says he intends to attend ceremony

The dispute has renewed broader discussions about the role of elected officials at major national remembrance events and whether political disagreements should influence participation in memorial ceremonies.

Mamdani has indicated that he plans to attend the 9/11 anniversary remembrance, saying the event should honor victims, survivors, and first responders.

Why the debate is drawing attention

The controversy highlights the continuing emotional weight of 9/11 remembrance ceremonies and how issues involving foreign policy, free speech, and political identity continue to shape public conversations decades later.

For many families of victims, the ceremony represents a deeply personal moment of mourning. For others, excluding public officials raises questions about whether memorial events should remain open to all elected representatives.