New York City mayor Zohran Mamdani delivered the remarks during a Fourth of July address, where he argued that patriotism is demonstrated through civic participation and the pursuit of a more just society rather than unquestioning loyalty. Referencing the American Revolution and New York City’s role in the fight for independence, Mamdani invoked George Washington reading the Declaration of Independence in what is now City Hall Park and the toppling of King George III’s statue, which was later melted down into bullets for the Continental Army. He said America’s founding ideals endure through the willingness of its people to challenge injustice, improve the nation, and continue striving toward its democratic ideals.