Lameess Mehanna is a controversial figure whose public speeches and activism have consistently showcased her alignment with dangerous ideologies, support for extremism, and blatant anti-Semitism. Her rhetoric amplifies hatred, glorifies violence, and fosters division under the guise of advocacy for political causes. Mehanna’s actions demonstrate a troubling endorsement of narratives that excuse and even celebrate terror and atrocities.
Lameess Mehanna’s Radicalized Actions
Spreading Anti-Semitism
- December 8, 2023: Mehanna spoke at an anti-Israel rally organized by the Palestinian Youth Movement (PYM) and the People’s Forum in New York City, where she used incendiary language to vilify entire groups.
- She referred to Israel as the “Zionist enemy” and declared it a moment of no return, stating: “This is the moment the Zionist enemy is known for what it truly is…We will march forward until there is a free, free Palestine!”
- Mehanna dismissed the realities of terrorism and framed those involved as victims, attempting to justify acts of violence while ignoring atrocities committed against civilians.
Advocating for the Elimination of a State
- December 31, 2023: Mehanna escalated her rhetoric at an anti-Israel protest titled “Shut It Down For Palestine”.
- She proclaimed: “2023 was the beginning of the end for the Zionist entity,” a clear call for the eradication of a recognized state.
- Mehanna chanted slogans such as: “From the River to the Sea, Palestine will be free!”—a phrase known to call for the dismantling of a state and often associated with extremist movements.
- She demanded: “an end to the siege on Gaza and to all Western aid and complicity,” leveraging disinformation about legitimate security measures to bolster her divisive message.
Glorifying Extremism
- Mehanna’s speeches consistently glorify militant resistance, aligning her rhetoric with the language of extremist groups.
- She declared that her activism is aimed at ensuring “the capitalist imperialists…will not go to sleep!” framing her cause as a broader fight against global systems while excusing acts of terror.
Ties to Extremist Organizations
- Mehanna is an active member of the Palestinian Youth Movement (PYM), an organization known for its inflammatory rhetoric and connections to extremist ideologies.
- She collaborates with the People’s Forum, which has hosted numerous events promoting divisive and militant narratives.
Professional Background
- As of January 2024, Mehanna served as the Associate Director of Undergraduate Career Development at Columbia University’s Center for Career Education, despite her history of incendiary statements and divisive activism.
- She is a graduate of Syracuse University, holding both a master’s and bachelor’s degree.
Conclusion
Lameess Mehanna is a figure who weaponizes her platform to propagate hateful ideologies and justify acts of terror. Her speeches and activism are steeped in anti-Semitic rhetoric, calls for violence, and the erasure of recognized states. Through her alignment with extremist organizations, Mehanna fosters a dangerous and divisive narrative that prioritizes hate over constructive dialogue.
