Former NYC Hate Crimes Director Sues Mayor Adams Alleging Anti-Muslim Discrimination

New York City Mayor Eric Adams faces a lawsuit filed by Hassan Naveed, his former director of hate crimes prevention, accusing Adams and his administration of anti-Muslim discrimination. Naveed alleges that following the Hamas terror attack on Israel in October 2023, Adams privately compared pro-Palestine protests to Ku Klux Klan rallies during a meeting with city employees, contributing to a hostile work environment for Muslim staff. The lawsuit claims this incident was part of a broader pattern of discriminatory conduct against Muslims, Arabs, Palestinians, and those perceived to be affiliated with these groups. Adams' spokeswoman denied the allegations, stating Naveed was terminated due to poor job performance and not because of his religion or views. The suit seeks at least $1 million in damages and highlights tensions within City Hall amid the city's response to the Middle East conflict. Mayor Adams is set to leave office on January 1, having decided not to seek reelection.