New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani Sends Handwritten Message to Umar Khalid via His Parents

New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani has written a handwritten note expressing solidarity with jailed activist Umar Khalid. The note was handed over to Khalid’s parents during an interaction in the United States in December 2025.

In the message addressed to Umar Khalid, Mayor Mamdani reflected on Khalid’s writings and spoke about the importance of resilience. “Dear Umar, I think of your words on bitterness often, and the importance of not letting it consume one’s self,” the mayor wrote. He also mentioned that it was a pleasure meeting Khalid’s parents and added, “We are all thinking of you.”

The gesture has drawn attention as a show of international support for Khalid, who has been in jail for several years in connection with the Delhi violence case. Supporters say the note highlights concerns around civil liberties and prolonged incarceration without trial.

The meeting between Mayor Mamdani and Khalid’s parents took place during the mayor’s interaction with members of the Indian diaspora in the United States. The handwritten note has since been shared publicly, drawing reactions from political leaders, activists, and social media users.