Ashley Reed:
In recognition of the vital role Muslim Americans play in shaping the cultural and civic fabric of New York, Governor Kathy Hochul has officially proclaimed January 2026 as Muslim American Heritage Month across the state. As part of the broader observance, the Governor’s Office sent Mamadou Siré Bah, Director of Muslim American Affairs in the New York State Executive Chamber, to personally deliver the proclamation at two notable institutions: Darul Uloom New York and Elhaam Academy.
These events brought students, faculty, and community members together to celebrate the proclamation’s significance. At each stop, the ceremonial presentation served as a powerful moment of affirmation, highlighting the contributions of Muslim Americans in fields ranging from education and public service to business and the arts.
The official proclamation notes that Muslims are the second-largest religious group globally, with over 1 million Muslims residing in New York State and more than 3.45 million across the United States. It emphasizes the significant and ongoing contributions of Muslim Americans to the cultural, civic, and economic fabric of the state. The proclamation further highlights the importance of using this month-long observance to promote understanding, appreciation, and inclusion, underscoring how deeply interwoven Muslim communities are in the story of New York.
At Darul Uloom NY and Elhaam Academy, school leaders expressed appreciation for the visit and the state-level recognition, calling it a meaningful step in promoting visibility and inclusion for Muslim youth in public discourse.
The proclamation further emphasizes New York State’s commitment to equity, denouncing bigotry and celebrating pluralism. It also acknowledges the growing representation of Muslims in public service and their integral role in building a just and inclusive state.
The presence of Bah across these educational institutions reinforced the state’s message of solidarity with Muslim communities, particularly at a time when national conversations around civil rights, identity, and representation remain highly relevant.
As students and staff welcomed the proclamation with enthusiasm, the events became more than just ceremonial—they were opportunities for reflection, pride, and unity. With this formal recognition, New York continues to affirm its values of diversity, tolerance, and mutual respect, starting with its youngest citizens.
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