NEW YORK (VINnews) — A group of families of victims killed in the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks has launched a petition urging organizers of the 25th anniversary commemoration at the National September 11 Memorial to bar New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani from attending the ceremony.

The petition, organized by relatives of 9/11 victims, had collected more than 1,100 signatures as of Saturday, including more than 300 from victims’ family members, according to organizers, citing figures reported by the New York Post.

Giovanni Galante, whose wife, Grace Catherine Galante, was killed in the attacks, said the request is based on what organizers describe as Mamdani’s public record, including past statements, political associations and appointments. Organizers argue his attendance would be inappropriate at what they called a solemn event dedicated to remembrance.

The petition cites several concerns, including Mamdani’s refusal to condemn the phrase “globalize the intifada,” his past associations with individuals accused of minimizing or defending terrorism, and appointments and endorsements involving people who have represented or made statements related to terrorism or the Sept. 11 attacks.

“Our objection is based on his public record,” Galante said. “This day is sacred to us.”

Cheri Sparacio, whose husband Thomas died in the attacks, said the anniversary “should remain centered on remembrance” and argued that Mamdani’s attendance would be disrespectful to many families.

Monica Iken-Murphy, whose husband Michael Iken was killed on Sept. 11 and who helped advocate for creation of the National September 11 Memorial & Museum, said she signed the petition but emphasized that her concerns were not political. She said the 25th anniversary should focus on families, survivors and officials directly involved in the aftermath of the attacks.

Julie Wood, a spokesperson for the National September 11 Memorial & Museum, said the organization has sought to keep the annual commemoration free of politics.

“Government officials from across the political spectrum, including every sitting president, governor, and mayor since 9/11, have attended the ceremony simply to bear witness,” Wood said, adding that elected officials do not deliver remarks and remain in a designated area.

Mamdani spokesperson Jeremy Edwards said the mayor intends to attend the ceremony.

“Mayor Mamdani will proudly honor the families, survivors and first responders forever impacted by these devastating attacks by standing alongside them at this year’s 9/11 Commemoration,” Edwards said.

The petition organizers said they plan to seek support from members of the New York City Council. Councilmember Joann Ariola told the New York Post she understood the concerns expressed by some victims’ families. The New York Post first reported on the petition drive.