NEW YORK (VINnews) — A digital taxi ad reading “Not gonna hide my Jewish star for a free bus ride” was removed after drawing complaints for referencing Mayor Zohran Mamdani’s free bus fare plan, the New York Post reported.

The ad, created by the group JewBelong to raise awareness about antisemitism, was taken down by ad placement firm Somo. Executive Vice President Jamie Lowe said in a video call with the group that complaints prompted the removal. “The ad that’s running is obviously somewhat anti-the mayor of New York City,” Lowe said.

JewBelong co-founder Archie Gottesman said the group refused to alter the ad. “Pulling it sends a chilling message that speaking out against hate is acceptable, until it makes someone uncomfortable,” he said.

The Anti-Defamation League also criticized the decision, with CEO Jonathan Greenblatt saying, “Suppressing awareness does not reduce antisemitism, especially at a time when we are seeing an alarming amount of antisemitic incidents.”

The Taxi and Limousine Commission said it was not involved in the removal. The controversy comes amid strained relations between segments of the Jewish community and Mayor Mamdani.