On a warm summer evening on July 8, 2025, the sun dipped low over the East River, casting a golden glow on the manicured grounds of Gracie Mansion, where over a thousand guests gathered beneath billowing white tents. There was laughter, music, and the enticing aroma of grilled delicacies wafting through the trees. The occasion: New York City’s 2025 Jewish Heritage Reception, hosted by Mayor Eric Adams

Yet beyond the festive atmosphere, this year’s reception carried profound significance. For many in the Jewish community, the months since October 7th have been marked by rising antisemitism and heightened fears. And so, the evening became not only a celebration of Jewish heritage but also a powerful statement of solidarity and determination.

Jewish Heritage Celebration at Gracie Mansion | New York Jewish Travel Guide

A Warm Welcome to Gracie Mansion

Mayor Adams, ever a charismatic host, strode onto the stage with a broad smile. His words were candid, heartfelt, and deeply personal as he addressed the assembled crowd:

“Many years ago, I told a story about the frog in the pot. When the heat rises slowly, it doesn’t notice it’s boiling. That’s what I feel has happened with antisemitism. The heat has gotten too high, and it’s time to turn off the flame. I’m here to get the frog out of the pot.”

He spoke of history—of Jewish flight and resilience from biblical times through Spain, Rome, and the Holocaust. Yet he declared emphatically:

“We will not be the generation of fleeing and leaving. We will be the generation to push back against hate. That’s what we must be.”

In a city with the world’s largest Jewish population outside Israel, his words rang with gravity.

A Night of Joy and Community

It was an evening filled with joyful energy and community pride. Popular singer Yoni Z took the stage, thrilling the crowd with songs in Hebrew, English, and even Italian. Smiling between numbers, he expressed his gratitude:

“It’s truly a privilege to be part of this Jewish Heritage celebration. Cheers to singing for you for four more years!”

Mayor Eric Adams addressing the audience during the Jewish Heritage Reception | New York Jewish Travel Guide

Guests meandered through the gardens, delighting in a festive barbecue catered by Mendy’s Restaurant, renowned for its delicious kosher cuisine. Tables overflowed with platters of succulent grilled meats, tender chicken, sweet corn on the cob, and crisp, colorful salads, shared in lively conversation among friends both old and new.

In clusters under the tents, conversations flowed about community challenges, cultural pride, and the unique tapestry of Jewish life in New York City. The evening felt intimate despite the large crowds sharing moments of resilience and hope.

Honoring Heroes of the Jewish Community

A significant highlight of the evening was Mayor Adams’ presentation of honors to individuals and organizations whose work strengthens Jewish life in New York and beyond.

Among the individuals recognized were

• Lizzy Savetsky, celebrated for her fearless social media advocacy combating antisemitism and inspiring Jewish pride.
• Rabbi Boruch Ber Bender, praised for his leadership at the Achiezer Community Resource Center and Achim B’Yachad, supporting countless families through life’s crises.
• Joel Eisdorfer, the mayor’s senior advisor, was honored for his tireless service and steadfast dedication to the Jewish community during turbulent times.

Several organizations were also lauded:

• Young Leaders, represented by Tali Dardashti, Danielle Babaev, Maya Gavriel, and Noam Waldenberg, were applauded for empowering Jewish students on college campuses and fostering a sense of pride and identity.
• Achim B’Yachad, part of Chai Lifeline, is recognized for bringing comfort and resources to children and families facing serious illness.
• Chazaq, commended for their work in promoting Jewish education and community development.
• Chaveirim, honored for their selfless acts of community assistance, embody the spirit of mitzvah—acts of kindness and support.

Mayor Adams beamed as he introduced each honoree, underscoring the message that the Jewish community is not only a vital part of New York’s past but also a cornerstone of its future.

Police Commissioner addressing the audience during the Jewish Heritage Reception | New York Jewish Travel Guide

Dignitaries Stand in Solidarity

The event drew an impressive roster of city leaders and dignitaries, all united in their support for New York’s Jewish community:

• Police Commissioner Jessica Tisch, who spoke passionately about ensuring safety for Jewish New Yorkers amid rising threats.
• Ofir Akunis, Consul General of Israel in New York, who eloquently described the shared democratic values binding Israel and the United States and the integral role of Jewish New Yorkers in shaping the city’s history.
• Lisa Zornberg, Chief Counsel to the Mayor and City Hall.
• Menashe Shapiro, Deputy Chief of Staff and Senior Advisor to the Mayor.
• Moshe Davis, Jewish Liaison for the Community Affairs Unit, instrumental in bridging City Hall and Jewish communities.

Throughout the evening, hugs, handshakes, and words of encouragement flowed freely, symbolizing a collective determination to face challenges together.

Jewish Heritage Celebration at Gracie Mansion | New York Jewish Travel Guide

A Vision for the Future

As the sun fully set and the lights of Gracie Mansion sparkled against the Manhattan skyline, Mayor Adams closed the night with a powerful reminder of the city’s strength in diversity:

“It’s about a city where you can wear your Star of David or your yarmulke and not be fearful in your synagogue or your houses of worship. This city belongs to you, as it belongs to every group. United together, we’ll continue to make this a city where we can raise healthy children and families.”

The reception concluded not merely with music and applause but with a powerful sense of unity and renewed purpose. As the final notes faded and the evening drew to a close, the crowd erupted into chants of ‘four more years,’ expressing enthusiastic support for Mayor Adams’ re-election and recognizing his steadfast commitment to New York’s Jewish community. For Jewish New Yorkers—and for all who cherish the city’s vibrant, diverse spirit—the 2025 Jewish Heritage Reception stood as a vivid affirmation that New York remains a place where every community can stand tall, live their faith freely, and contribute to the ongoing story of a city built on hope, resilience, and mutual respect. Under Mayor Adams’ leadership, the message was clear: New York is, and will always be, a home for all who call it theirs.

By Meyer Harroch, New York Jewish Travel Guide