A Wall Street banker, Kurush Mistry, has been dismissed from his position after a two-minute video capturing an antisemitic incident went viral on social media.
Mistry, along with his partner Shailja Gupta, faced significant backlash for their actions during the incident that occurred at New York’s 68th Street and Riverside Boulevard.
The Incident Unfolds
The video shows Mistry and Gupta covering lampposts with posters calling for the return of hostages kidnapped by Hamas terrorists.
When confronted by an onlooker, Mistry responds with offensive gestures. The situation escalates as Mistry holds up a note claiming that “Israel is an apartheid state and commits genocide.” The couple then instruct the onlooker to “go back to your country.”
Employment Consequences
Kurush Mistry, with a nine-year tenure at Freepoint Commodities, faced swift consequences for his actions. Freepoint, a company involved in energy, metals, and agricultural markets, released a statement asserting that the individual in the video is no longer associated with the company. The Financial Times confirmed Mistry’s dismissal.
Company Stance on Diversity
Freepoint emphasized its commitment to diversity of views but clarified that it does not tolerate discrimination and hate speech.
The incident highlights the ongoing challenges companies face in addressing employee behavior that goes against their values.
Broader Context
The incident adds to the heightened tensions in the U.S. surrounding the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Antisemitic incidents have quadrupled since the start of the war, according to the Anti-Defamation League.
The situation has also sparked controversies in academic institutions, with executives expressing concerns over statements and actions critical of Israel.
Mayor’s Assurance
Mayor Eric Adams, governing a city with a substantial Jewish population, has reiterated support for Israel in the wake of antisemitic incidents. The city has witnessed demonstrations, rallies, and vigils in support of both Palestinians and Israel, reflecting the complex dynamics of the ongoing conflict.
Rising Antisemitic Incidents
The article underscores the concerning rise in antisemitic incidents in the U.S. and the broader impact of geopolitical events on local communities.
The aftermath of Mistry’s actions sheds light on the challenges of maintaining inclusivity and diversity in the face of divisive global issues.
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