Hoboken mayor defends Palestinian flag raising, says date’s link to First Intifada was unintentional
HOBOKEN, NJ – Hoboken Mayor Ravi S. Bhalla on Tuesday defended the decision to raise the flag of Palestine outside City Hall, saying the move was meant to celebrate the city’s diversity — not to make a political statement — after some residents objected to the timing of the event.
The flag was raised on December 9th, the same day the First Infitada started in 1987.
The First Intifada, also known as the First Palestinian Intifada, was a sustained uprising involving violent and non-violent protests, acts of civil disobedience, riots, and terrorist attacks carried out by Palestinian civilians and militants in the Israeli-occupied Palestinian territories and Israel.
The flag was raised earlier in the day at Bhalla’s direction following requests from local residents of Palestinian descent, in keeping with Hoboken’s long-standing tradition of honoring different cultures through flag ceremonies.
Bhalla said the city routinely raises flags recognizing communities such as Italian, Puerto Rican, LGBTQ+, and Indigenous residents, describing the practice as a way to acknowledge the people who make up Hoboken’s diverse population.
Mayor says ceremony not a political act
In a written statement, Bhalla emphasized that the flag raising “is not, in any way, shape or form, intended as a political statement by the City of Hoboken,” adding that the city “takes no position on international political conflicts.”
He said the display was meant as an affirmation that Palestinian residents “are part of our community,” similar to other groups whose heritage has been celebrated at City Hall over the years.
Timing draws criticism for historic association
After the ceremony, Bhalla said he was informed that December 9 marks the anniversary of the First Intifada, a date significant in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. He called the timing “an unfortunate coincidence,” stating it was not known when the scheduling was approved.
“I understand that this coincidence has caused concern for some members of our community,” Bhalla wrote. “This was not our intention — rather it was simply to recognize local residents who call Hoboken home.”
Hoboken reaffirming inclusivity
Bhalla reiterated that Hoboken’s commitment to inclusion means “no community should be overlooked or denied the chance to be recognized.” The mayor cited similar events honoring residents from Puerto Rico, Ecuador, India, Ukraine, Israel, and other communities.
He said extending that same respect to Palestinian residents aligns with Hoboken’s values as a “Fair & Welcoming City.”
Mayor calls for unity amid global conflict
In closing, Bhalla urged residents to remain united and empathetic during tense global times. “It is vital that our residents feel seen and supported,” he said, adding that his duty as mayor is to treat all community members “equally, without exception.”
