Ashley Reed:
For the first time in state history, Governor Kathy Hochul has proclaimed the month of January as Muslim American Heritage Month in New York State, marking a historic step in recognizing the contributions, faith, and cultural legacy of Muslim Americans. In a powerful gesture of inclusion, 16 iconic landmarks, including One World Trade Center, Niagara Falls, and Grand Central Terminal, were illuminated green to honor the occasion.
“Home to the largest Muslim American population in the nation, New York is proud to join in this month-long celebration, recognizing the values, faith and traditions of our Muslim American communities,” Governor Hochul said in a statement. “New York remains committed to being a beacon of hope, tolerance, and inclusivity that celebrates the diversity of its Muslim American population and protects them from Islamophobia, hate, bias, and harm.“
This statewide celebration is a milestone in affirming the role that over 1 million Muslim New Yorkers play in shaping the state’s civic, cultural, and economic life. Community leaders, elected officials, faith figures, and advocacy groups across the state welcomed the proclamation with heartfelt appreciation.
New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani, the city’s first Muslim mayor, welcomed the historic proclamation, saying, “While I was proud to be sworn in as our city’s first Muslim mayor yesterday, Muslims have been part of New York for centuries. We have built small businesses, raised our families, pursued every profession, enriched our culture and cuisine, and been a part of what makes our city what it is today. I am grateful for Governor Hochul’s leadership in recognizing these many contributions and ensuring that every January, Muslim New Yorkers can see ourselves reflected and recognized in a city and state that is also our home.”
Assemblymember Charles D. Fall, the first Muslim elected to the New York State Assembly representing Staten Island and Lower Manhattan, underscored the importance of visibility, stating, “As the first Muslim elected to the New York State Assembly to represent Staten Island and Lower Manhattan, I’ve always believed leadership is about uplifting every voice in our state. Muslim New Yorkers are vital to our communities as neighbors, parents, business owners, and public servants. Declaring January as Muslim American Heritage Month affirms that Muslim New Yorkers are seen, valued, and respected for the role they play in moving New York forward. Governor Hochul’s proclamation reinforces a simple truth: New York works best when its leadership reflects the people it serves.”
State Senator Robert Jackson, New York’s first Muslim state senator, praised the recognition and reflected on the strength of the state’s diversity, saying, “As the first Muslim Senator in New York State, I am deeply proud to join Governor Hochul in celebrating and honoring the invaluable contributions of my Muslim brothers and sisters during Muslim American Heritage Month. New York is home to one of the largest and most ethnically diverse Muslim populations in the world, and we are stronger because of it. This month, as we commemorate Muslim American Heritage, we pause to honor the profound impact that Muslims have made on our economic prosperity, cultural fabric and civic life, and reaffirm our steadfast commitment to dignity, opportunity and respect for all.”
New York City Councilmember Shahana Hanif, the first Muslim woman elected in New York State, emphasized how deeply intertwined her identity is with the state she serves, saying, “As the first Muslim woman elected in New York State, I applaud Governor Hochul’s designation of January as Muslim American Heritage Month. My Muslim identity is inseparable from being Brooklyn-born and raised. From Brooklyn to Buffalo, Muslim New Yorkers reflect the extraordinary diversity, resilience, and contributions that define our state. This recognition is more than symbolic—it affirms that New York’s history and future cannot be told without its Muslim communities, and I am proud to be a Muslim New Yorker.”
New York City Councilmember Yusef Salaam, a criminal justice reform advocate and member of the Exonerated Five, highlighted the lasting significance of the official designation, saying, “For the first time, New York is proclaiming January as Muslim American Heritage Month and lighting state landmarks green to honor the state’s vibrant Muslim community — and I thank the Governor and the many Muslim advocates who fought to make this recognition a reality. This acknowledgment affirms our deep roots and lasting contributions to the fabric of New York.”
Lackawanna First Ward Council Member Amira H. Muflahi, representing Muslim communities in western New York, welcomed the designation as a meaningful act of inclusion. “The proclamation of January as Muslim American Heritage Month is a meaningful milestone that honors the rich history, faith, and contributions of Muslim Americans across New York State. The lighting of state landmarks in green is a beautiful and symbolic gesture of recognition and inclusion. We are deeply grateful to Governor Hochul for acknowledging the vital role Muslim communities play in the fabric of our great state. May this moment continue to inspire unity, understanding, and celebration of our shared values.”
Dr. Debbie Almontaser, Senior Advisor at Emgage Metro NY and a longtime educator, emphasized the importance of visibility for young Muslims, stating, “As a longtime educator and one who believes in diversity, equity and inclusion, I commend and thank Governor Hochul for inaugurating January as Muslim American Heritage Month in the State of New York. This has been a lifetime dream where every Muslim child will feel acknowledged, heard and valued by their government.”
Dr. Khalid J. Qazi, Inaugural President of the Muslim Public Affairs Council of Western New York, framed the proclamation as a commitment to shared humanity and inclusive values, saying, “The declaration of Muslim American Heritage Month affirms New York’s enduring commitment to diversity, dignity, and inclusion. It honors the rich history, faith, and profound contributions of generations of Muslim New Yorkers whose leadership, service, and innovation strengthen our communities, enrich the fabric of our state and celebrates our shared humanity.”
Imam Mansoor Rafiq Umar, of the Muslim Community of Bethlehem, emphasized that the designation affirms Muslims as part of the fabric of the nation. “As a Muslim born in the great state of New York, I carry with me the confidence of ‘One nation under God’ to the same tune as passionate believers of all faiths across America. Honoring the heritage of our people is truly a significant statement by our Governor that we are a part of the fabric of our nation that undergirds the common threads of goodwill. To all those honoring Muslim-American Heritage Month, we stand together, green lights a-lit on every monument, saluting our past giants, honoring our present stewards, and lifting the future leaders yet to come.”
Carolynn B. Sozen, Executive Interfaith Council Member at the NYS Office of Faith and Nonprofit Developmental Services, celebrated the occasion as a moment of recognition for the contributions of American Muslims. “Today is a momentous occasion for American Muslims across New York State! We are honored to be recognized as valued and integral citizens in our richly diverse communities. The contributions of American Muslims — past, present, and future — continue to strengthen and enrich our great State. Thank you, Governor Hochul, for your determination to cherish and uplift all individuals.”
Imam Abdul-Rahman Yaki, of the Islamic Center of the Capital District, expressed appreciation for the acknowledgment and called for unity. He stated, “Many thanks to Governor Kathy Hochul for recognizing the contributions of Muslim Americans to our great New York State. As Muslims, we appreciate, we care and vow to protect NYS together. Those of us who arrived yesterday and us today and those coming tomorrow, the attitude of positivity must be our greatest strength.”
Mohammad Razvi, CEO of the Council of Peoples Organization (COPO), reflected on the resilience of Muslim communities post-9/11 and the message of pride the proclamation sends. “Governor Hochul’s acknowledgment of Muslim American Heritage Month represents an important and affirming moment for Muslim New Yorkers across the state. For a community that has demonstrated resilience in the years following 9/11—while continuing to strengthen New York through immigrant contributions, civic leadership, and service—this recognition affirms our place in the social, cultural, and civic life of our state. COPO will light up green on January 2nd to honor Muslim American Heritage Month and to send a message of pride and belonging to our youth and families.”
Mehak Jamil, Co-founder of the Albany Muslim Advocacy Coalition (AMAC), highlighted the importance of engagement and representation. “The Albany Muslim Advocacy Coalition (AMAC) welcomes Governor Hochul’s proclamation of Muslim American Heritage Month as an opportunity to highlight the contributions of Muslim communities in the Capital Region and across New York. As the first Muslim advocacy organization in the Capital Region, AMAC is committed to fostering understanding and equitable representation, and encourages all public leaders to deepen their engagement by visiting local mosques and hearing directly from their Muslim constituents.”
Imam Shaffieq Chace, of the Westchester Muslim Center, called for public engagement and remembrance, stating, “This Muslim American Heritage Month, we look forward to opening the doors of our mosques and community centers, to sharing stories of our history, and to engaging in dialogue that builds bridges of understanding. We hope this month will foster a deeper appreciation for the approximately 1 million Muslims who call New York home, who serve as doctors, teachers, first responders, artists, and entrepreneurs. Many also gave their lives like NYPD Detective Didarul Islam. May this initiative inspire greater harmony, dispel misconceptions, and remind us all that our collective heritage is one of our greatest strengths.”
Husein Yatabarry, Executive Director of the Muslim Community Network, emphasized the value of public recognition amid rising Islamophobia. “Muslim Community Network welcomes Governor Hochul’s proclamation of January as Muslim American Heritage Month and the lighting of state landmarks in green. For Muslim New Yorkers, this is more than symbolism. It is public recognition that our families, workers, students, and small businesses have helped build this state for generations. At a time when Islamophobia and misinformation are rising, visible inclusion like this matters.”
Imam Dr. Tahir Kukaj, of the Albanian Islamic Cultural Center, described the landmark lighting as a message of belonging. “We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Governor Kathy Hochul for proclaiming January as Muslim American Heritage Month in New York State. This historic recognition affirms that Muslim New Yorkers are a valued part of the fabric of this great state—serving our neighbors, strengthening our communities, and contributing to the common good. Lighting state landmarks in green is more than a symbol — it is a message of unity, dignity, and shared belonging.”
Abdul Aziz Bhuiyan, Chairman of Hillside Islamic Center and representative of the Muslim Community of Nassau County (MCNC), reflected on the long-standing presence of Muslims in the region. “The history of Muslims as integral members of the United States, particularly in New York, spans centuries. This includes the early presence of enslaved individuals brought by ships and later, migrants arriving on merchant marine vessels. As the Muslim population in New York has grown, it is fitting that their contributions and presence are recognized and appreciated. We express our sincere gratitude to Governor Kathy Hochul for dedicating and proclaiming January as Muslim American Heritage Month.”
Mai Abdullah, Executive Director of Refugees Helping Refugees of Rochester, highlighted the symbolic and emotional value of the month. “This is a historic and deeply meaningful moment for Muslim New Yorkers and for our state. Recognizing Muslim American Heritage Month affirms that our stories, contributions, and presence are an integral part of New York’s fabric. Lighting our landmarks in green is a powerful symbol of visibility, belonging, and pride. We celebrate this landmark recognition with gratitude and hope.”
Imam Amir Durić, Assistant Dean for Religious and Spiritual Life at Syracuse University, pointed to the civic contributions of generations of Muslims. “This historic proclamation affirms that Muslim Americans are an integral part of New York’s past, present, and future. It honors generations who have contributed to the civic, cultural, and moral life of this great state. By celebrating Muslim American heritage, NYS reaffirms its commitment to the rich tapestry of diverse constituents who work hard for our common good.”
Hisham Tawfiq, of the Mosque of Islamic Brotherhood (MIB), offered a broader reflection on the value of heritage months. “Muslim American Heritage Month is a celebration of the history, culture, and contributions of Muslims both in the U.S. and globally. It highlights Muslim achievements in science, arts, and leadership, helps counter stereotypes and Islamophobia, and affirms the unity of deity. The month also promotes understanding and a more inclusive narrative by showcasing the diverse heritages and positive impacts of Muslims around the world.”
Dr. Uzma Syed, Founder and President of the Eid Holiday Coalition, celebrated the proclamation as an inclusive milestone. “The recognition of Muslim American Heritage Month in New York State is a momentous and meaningful occasion. As the most diverse state in the nation and home to the largest Muslim population in the country, New York is strengthened by the contributions of Muslim New Yorkers who help shape a brighter future for all who call the Empire State home. Together, we can continue working toward a tomorrow where every New Yorker feels seen, valued, and a true sense of belonging.”
Imam Muhammad Shahidullah, Board Chair of Elhaam Academy, called the proclamation a pivotal moment. “This is a historic turning point for New York. By formally recognizing Muslim American Heritage Month for the first time, we honor the generations of faith, service, and civic courage that have built this State — affirming once and for all that Muslim New Yorkers are an essential part of our shared American story.”
Tuqa Nusairat, Executive Director of the Institute for Social Policy and Understanding (ISPU), backed the proclamation with community data and significance. “Governor Hochul’s proclamation not only honors the indispensable contributions American Muslims have made to the cultural, economic, and civic life of New York, but also serves as a meaningful step in pushing back against rampant Islamophobia by fostering greater understanding, visibility, and respect. Our research shows this dynamic and diverse community makes up 12.5% of all pharmacists, 40% of taxi drivers, and over 57% of street food vendors. In 2016, Muslims owned 95,816 small businesses in NYC, employing over 250,000 workers. This is only a snapshot of the profound contributions Muslims make to New York City — Muslims are not a marginal presence, but a vital part of what keeps New York running.”
This landmark moment has not only brought visibility to the nearly 1 million Muslims residing in New York, but also positioned New York as a national leader in recognizing and institutionalizing Muslim American contributions. As mosques, civic groups, and individuals continue to mark Muslim American Heritage Month, the green glow across the state’s skyline stands as a vivid, enduring reminder that every New Yorker belongs.
