URGENT UPDATE: Mayor Zohran Mamdani has just announced the creation of a new Office of Mass Engagement in New York City, coinciding with the celebration of Muslim American Heritage Month. This announcement marks a pivotal moment for community recognition and engagement, as it aims to foster inclusivity and address pressing issues, including recent discussions surrounding antisemitism definitions.
In a statement delivered earlier today, January 2, 2026, Mamdani praised Governor Kathy Hochul for her proclamation recognizing the contributions of the Muslim community in New York City, home to the largest Muslim American population in the nation. “New York remains committed to being a beacon of hope, tolerance, and inclusivity,” Hochul stated, emphasizing the importance of celebrating diversity while protecting against Islamophobia and hate.
The lighting of prominent landmarks, including the One World Trade Center and buildings around Empire State Plaza, in green symbolizes the city’s commitment to honoring Muslim Americans throughout January. “While I was proud to be sworn in as our city’s first Muslim mayor, Muslims have been part of New York for centuries,” said Mamdani, underscoring the deep-rooted presence of the Muslim community in the city’s fabric.
“This recognition affirms our place in the social, cultural, and civic life of our state,” said Mohammad Razvi, CEO of the Council of Peoples Organization, highlighting the resilience shown by the Muslim community, especially in the years following 9/11.
Mamdani’s new office aims to create a “clean slate” for governance, addressing community needs and ensuring representation amidst growing concerns over hate crimes. Notably, anti-Jewish incidents accounted for a staggering 54% of all reported hate crimes in New York City in 2024, according to a report from the Institute for Social Policy and Understanding.
In addition to the mayor, other Muslim leaders including Charles Fall, Robert Jackson, Shahana Hanif, and Yusef Salaam have applauded the designation, thanking Hochul for promoting inclusivity and recognition of the Muslim community’s contributions. The Muslim demographic significantly impacts various sectors, making up 12.5% of pharmacists, 40% of taxi drivers, and over 57% of street food vendors in the city.
This month-long celebration is not only a recognition of Muslim American contributions but also a call to unity in the face of rising hate crimes. The mayor’s office is expected to play a crucial role in addressing these challenges while fostering a more inclusive environment for all New Yorkers.
As New York City embraces this important milestone, the community watches closely for further developments. What happens next will be critical in shaping the city’s approach to diversity and inclusion under Mamdani’s leadership.
Stay tuned for updates on this developing story as it unfolds, and join the conversation about the importance of recognizing and celebrating all communities in New York City.
