A digital billboard carrying the message “Jesus is Palestinian” lit up New York City’s Times Square this week, quickly becoming a flashpoint for debate among tourists, holiday visitors, and social media users. Installed during the Christmas season, the display has prompted sharp reactions, with some calling it provocative and others praising it as a statement meant to spark reflection.Funded by the American-Arab Anti-Discrimination Committee (ADC), the billboard shows the slogan in large black letters against a green background, alongside a separate panel wishing passersby a “Merry Christmas.” Its placement in one of the world’s most visited public spaces ensured immediate attention, and controversy.
Tourists and netizens react to the message
Several visitors interviewed by the New York Post described the billboard as “divisive” and “inflammatory,” arguing that it felt out of place during a festive period meant for unity. Some British tourists, in particular, voiced discomfort, while others said that Jesus is a universal religious figure, making any modern political or ethnic label unnecessary.
Online, reactions were equally mixed. One user wrote, “That’s a beautiful and thought-provoking message to see in such a vibrant place!” Another responded simply, “Wait what?”
ADC defends billboard, says goal is to spark conversation
Adeb Ayoub, National Executive Director of the Arab American organization, told the New York Post that the non-profit has been renting advertising space in Times Square since earlier this year, with different messages rotating on a weekly basis.He said the broader theme behind the campaign is “America First,” aimed at encouraging people to see common ground between Arab and Muslim communities and Christians in the US during what he described as “the busiest time in New York City.”“There’s a lot more similarities between Arabs and Muslims and Christians in this country than others want to allow us to believe and there are similarities and there is a fear of culture, shared religion,” Ayoub told.“Most of the Americans in this country are Christian and the birthplace of Christianity is Palestine. 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. Otherwise, we’re silenced and our voices and positions don’t come out.”Ayoub added that Jewish groups he claims have waged a digital war against him since the Spring are free to promote their own views about Jesus as well.
