‘Jesus Is Palestinian’ Christmas Billboard At New York's Times Square Sparks Row: 'Wait What?'

Last Updated:December 25, 2025, 21:52 IST

The billboard, sponsored by the American-Arab Anti-Discrimination Committee (ADC), features the slogan in large black letters against a green background.

'Jesus is Palestinian' is seen at New York City's Times Square.

A digital billboard in Times Square displaying the message “Jesus is Palestinian" triggered sharp reactions from tourists and holiday-goers in New York City during the Christmas period. The billboard, sponsored by the American-Arab Anti-Discrimination Committee (ADC), features the slogan in large black letters against a green background, alongside a separate panel wishing passersby a “Merry Christmas."

Several visitors interviewed by the New York Post described the message as “divisive" and “inflammatory," particularly during the holiday season. Some British tourists questioned the timing and tone of the display, while others argued that Jesus is viewed as a universal religious figure, making any specific national or ethnic label unnecessary.

Reactions online were similarly divided. One user on X (formerly Twitter) described the billboard as “beautiful and thought-provoking," while another expressed confusion, writing simply, “Wait what?" A third user said the message was “surprising considering this is America."

Responding to the backlash, ADC Executive Director Adeb Ayoub said the organisation has been leasing advertising space in Times Square since the beginning of the year and refreshes its messaging weekly.

Adeb Ayoub said the campaign aims to spark dialogue and highlight shared values among Christians, Muslims and Arab Americans, particularly during the holiday season when foot traffic in the area is at its peak. He described the initiative as part of a broader effort to counter what he termed the marginalisation of Arab and Muslim voices in the United States.

On the question of Jesus’ identity, Adeb Ayoub said the message was intentionally framed to be inclusive, noting that interpretations vary and that individuals are entitled to express their own perspectives.

The ADC has since replaced the “Jesus is Palestinian" billboard with a new message quoting former US President Ronald Reagan: “Jesus would say: ‘tear down this wall,’" a line referencing both the Berlin Wall and the Israeli security barrier.

Adeb Ayoub said additional displays are planned for New Year’s Eve, signalling the organisation’s intent to maintain a prominent and provocative presence in Times Square to encourage continued public debate.

News world ‘Jesus Is Palestinian’ Christmas Billboard At New York's Times Square Sparks Row: 'Wait What?'

Read More