A bold digital billboard proclaiming the message "Jesus is Palestinian" illuminated New York City's iconic Times Square this week, instantly transforming the bustling tourist hub into a global flashpoint for heated discussion. Erected during the Christmas season, the display has drawn sharp and divided reactions from visitors and online audiences alike, praised by some as a thought-provoking statement and condemned by others as inflammatory.
Mixed Reactions from Tourists and Social Media
The billboard, featuring the slogan in large black letters against a green background with a separate panel wishing "Merry Christmas," ensured immediate attention due to its prime location. Interviews conducted by the New York Post revealed a spectrum of opinions among tourists. Several described it as "divisive" and "inflammatory," arguing it was out of place during a festive period meant for unity. Some British tourists expressed particular discomfort.
Others countered that Jesus is a universal religious figure, making any modern political or ethnic label unnecessary. Online, reactions mirrored this split. One social media user celebrated it as a "beautiful and thought-provoking message," while others responded with confusion and criticism, highlighting the polarizing nature of the display.
ADC Defends Campaign Goal: Sparking Conversation
The billboard was funded and installed by the American-Arab Anti-Discrimination Committee (ADC). Adeb Ayoub, the organization's National Executive Director, explained to the New York Post that the non-profit has been renting advertising space in Times Square since earlier this year, rotating messages weekly. He stated the broader campaign theme is "America First," aimed at highlighting common ground between Arab, Muslim, and Christian communities in the US, especially during New York's busiest season.
"Most of the Americans in this country are Christian and the birthplace of Christianity is Palestine," Ayoub said. He welcomed the ensuing debate, noting, "If people wanna go back and forth and debate it, then great, the billboard sparked debate. At least you’re having a conversation about it." Ayoub added that Jewish groups, which he claims have waged a digital campaign against him, are free to promote their own views about Jesus as well.
A Controversial Statement in the Heart of NYC
The strategic placement of the "Jesus is Palestinian" message in one of the world's most visited public spaces guaranteed it would become a viral topic. The controversy underscores the powerful role of public art and advertising in shaping political and religious discourse. While intended by the ADC to foster reflection on shared heritage and challenge prevailing narratives, the billboard has primarily highlighted deep societal divisions, proving that Times Square remains a potent stage for statements that resonate far beyond its physical boundaries.
