Darializa Avila Chevalier, the Democratic Socialist nominee for New York’s 13th Congressional District, was detained by New York City police Thursday while protesting Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s address to the United Nations General Assembly.
The demonstration, organized by Jewish Voice for Peace, gathered roughly 250 demonstrators on First Avenue near the UN headquarters. Protesters blocked traffic, chanted slogans such as “Free Palestine,” “Netanyahu, you can’t hide! We charge you with genocide!” and demanded an end to the killing in Gaza.
Avila Chevalier, who recently defeated five‑term incumbent Rep. Adriano Espaillat in a historic primary, was arrested alongside New York City Councilmember Chi Ossé and comedian Caleb Heron. Other high‑profile arrests included actors Susan Sarandon, Cynthia Nixon and Hannah Einbinder.
In a statement shared with City & State, Avila Chevalier said she would not allow “a war criminal to roam the streets of our city unchallenged.” She added, “Netanyahu belongs at the Hague: not in the streets of New York City, and certainly not addressing the United Nations General Assembly.” The candidate also warned that “our government has unlimited funds to arm a genocide against Palestinians while telling us there’s nothing left to feed and house our own people.”
The protest highlighted the growing tension between U.S. political support for Israel and a rising wave of grassroots activism that frames the conflict as a moral and humanitarian crisis. For many faith‑based readers, the call to protect innocent lives and pursue justice resonates with Christian teachings on peace and the dignity of every person.
Police cleared the roadway after protesters refused police orders to disperse, placing zip‑ties on several demonstrators before loading them onto NYPD buses. Avila Chevalier’s campaign posted photos of the arrest, confirming her participation and reiterating her commitment to non‑violent protest.
Netanyahu delivered his UN address as scheduled, while dozens of delegates left the assembly hall in protest. The next steps for the arrested demonstrators, including whether charges will be filed, remain unclear. Avila Chevalier’s campaign says the incident strengthens her resolve to advocate for a just foreign policy rooted in compassion and accountability.