Cleveland Heights Protest Planned Over Antisemitic Remarks Allegedly Made by Mayor’s Wife

CLEVELAND HEIGHTS, OH — Cleveland Heights is reeling after serious allegations of antisemitic behavior were lodged against Natalie McDaniel, the wife of Mayor Kahlil Seren, sparking a civil rights complaint and widespread outrage in the community.

Former special assistant to the mayor, Patrick Costigan, filed a complaint on May 14 with the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission and the Ohio Civil Rights Commission, alleging McDaniel created a hostile work environment at City Hall through repeated antisemitic remarks and behavior. Screenshots submitted with the complaint show McDaniel using slurs and offensive language in text messages targeting Jewish colleagues and residents, including Planning Commission Chair Jessica Cohen.

Among the statements attributed to McDaniel are references to Cohen, an Orthodox Jew, as a "brood mare" who is "destined for the glue factory," and comments about other Jewish city officials, such as calling Councilman Jim Posch the "Jewish candidate," and accusing Orthodox colleagues of nepotism and inappropriate relationships. McDaniel also allegedly mocked Orthodox Jewish traditions and attire and mimicked the accent of an Orthodox resident. Costigan, who identifies as an ethnic Jew, said the atmosphere became so toxic he was forced to take medical leave. He was later terminated.

Attorney Sean Sobel, representing Costigan, said, “Antisemitism has no place in our society, let alone from someone so closely connected to the leadership of Cleveland Heights.”

The mayor's office has not issued a public statement addressing the complaint, though Mayor Seren previously denied that McDaniel gave directives to city staff. Costigan's complaint directly contradicts this, asserting he was told by Seren to follow "any and all directives" from McDaniel, making her his de facto supervisor.

In addition to these claims, a photo circulating online shows McDaniel possessing a City of Cleveland Heights-issued badge that grants her access to restricted areas within City Hall. Critics argue the existence of the badge undercuts the mayor’s denial of her official influence, suggesting she held a level of access and authority incompatible with her unofficial role.

The allegations have galvanized community members. A protest organized under the hashtag #EndJewHatred is scheduled for Monday, May 19, at 5:30 p.m. at the corner of Mayfield and South Taylor roads in front of City Hall. Protest organizers have urged attendees to bring American and Israeli flags and signs denouncing antisemitism. The demonstration will lead into the 7:30 p.m. City Council meeting, where public comment is expected to focus heavily on demands for accountability and transparency.

One resident shared, “This is the sort of event that really defines who we as residents of Cleveland Heights are. We are a city of diversity and compassion.”

Community members across social media and public forums have expressed outrage, with some calling for Mayor Seren to resign. Others voiced concern about how the controversy is affecting the city's reputation and administrative functioning. Several residents noted that the hostile environment has made it difficult to retain or attract qualified staff.

In an emotional public post, Cleveland Heights City Councilwoman Davida Russell expressed deep concern over the revelations, writing, “After receiving an article detailing acts of antisemitism in our city, I couldn't sleep. I tossed and turned all night, overwhelmed by disbelief.” She added, “Antisemitism in any form is a vile and unacceptable expression of hatred that has no place in Cleveland Heights—or anywhere in the world.” Councilwoman Russell publicly voiced her support for those named in the complaint, stating, “I stand in solidarity with Jessica Cohen, Eric Zamft, Jim Posch, and Marty Gelfand—respected and valued members of our community.” She emphasized that Cleveland Heights must remain a place “where diversity is celebrated, hate is confronted, and every individual—regardless of faith, race, or background—is treated with dignity and respect.”

In response, former South Euclid Councilman and mayoral candidate Marty Gelfand, who was also named in the complaint, thanked Russell for her solidarity. “When I read the article, my initial reaction was that these comments say a lot more about the person who spoke them than it does about any of us they were targeting,” Gelfand posted on Facebook. “But I also realize that in times like these where it seems almost normal for some to spread hatred against others, it’s more important than ever to call it out for what it is. It’s that much more meaningful when the person calling it out is not the target of the attack.”

Jessica Cohen, the primary subject of many of the slurs, has received public support from attorney Michael Ungar, who said, "Jessica Cohen is a dedicated public servant who cares deeply about Cleveland Heights and its citizens regardless of religious background."

Meanwhile, the scandal unfolds as Cleveland Heights heads toward its second-ever mayoral election. Two challengers have already filed paperwork: City Councilman Jim Petras and former South Euclid Councilman Marty Gelfand, the latter of whom was also named in the complaint as being targeted by McDaniel for his Jewish identity. The mayor has yet to announce if he will seek re-election.

As emotions run high, many residents have emphasized the importance of showing up, speaking out, and standing together. "Whether you have a statement requesting resignation or simply sharing your disappointment with the dysfunction, what you have to say is very important," one organizer said.

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