Daniel Matthew :
The Emgage New York Metro Gala: Faith & Resilience brought Muslim New Yorkers, civic leaders, advocates, and community supporters together for a powerful evening focused on representation, political engagement, and collective strength.
Held on Friday, May 8, 2026, the gala marked 20 years of Emgage and highlighted the organization’s work to educate and mobilize Muslim American voters. The event gathered changemakers and influential voices at a pivotal moment, with an emphasis on civic engagement, leadership, and community resilience.
The program featured New York Attorney General Letitia James, actor and comedian Azhar Usman, and Emgage Interim CEO Mohamed Gula. The evening also placed special focus on the importance of Muslim American participation in public life and the need for communities to remain organized ahead of future elections.
Introducing Attorney General James, Dr. Debbie Almontaser welcomed attendees and described the room as filled with people “from every ethnic, racial, religious background,” united around “civic engagement and political power.” She also noted the significance of holding the event at the Dr. Betty Shabazz and Malcolm X Memorial, calling it the home of Al-Hajj Malik Shabazz, “the icon for Muslim Americans across this country, across this world.”
In her remarks, Letitia James reflected on the challenges facing diverse communities and the importance of solidarity. “What gives me hope is when we stand together as one with no space between us, when we stand arm-in-arm, shoulder-to-shoulder,” she said.
James also emphasized voting rights, calling the vote “the most basic right from which all rights emanate.” She urged attendees to respond through civic participation, saying communities must come out “in record numbers” and vote “in quiet defiance.”
Speaking from the theme of the evening, James said, “It’s faith over fear. And faith is a powerful voice, a powerful force.” She added that she would continue to use the law “both as a sword and as a shield” to protect people’s rights.
The gala’s message extended beyond celebration. It served as a call for Muslim Americans and allies to remain visible, organized, and engaged. By centering faith, resilience, and political power, Emgage reinforced the role of civic participation in shaping stronger, more represented communities across New York.
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