New York’s Democrat Governor Kathy Hochul has issued a proclamation declaring January as Muslim American Heritage Month across the state and directed 16 landmarks, including One World Trade Center, to be illuminated green “in celebration of the heritage and culture of Muslim Americans.”
In a Friday statement, Hochul said:
“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.
“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.”
One World Trade Center sits on the site of 6 World Trade Center, which was heavily damaged by debris during the collapse of the North Tower in the 9/11 terrorist attacks.
The attackers were Muslim members of the Islamic terrorist group al Qaeda.
The proclamation came one day after New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani was sworn in on a Quran as the city’s first Muslim mayor.
“While I was proud to be sworn in as our city’s first Muslim mayor [Thursday], Muslims have been part of New York for centuries,” Mamdani said.
“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.”
Several Muslim elected officials praised the declaration, including New York State Assembly Deputy Majority Leader Charles Fall, state Sen. Robert Jackson, New York City Councilmember Shahana Hanif, and New York City Councilmember Yusef Salaam.
They thanked Hochul for honoring Islam and promoting inclusivity.
Council of Peoples Organization CEO Mohammad Razvi said the Muslim community 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. …
“This moment reflects New York’s continued commitment to civil rights, religious freedom, unity, and interfaith solidarity and to ensuring that people of all backgrounds are seen, valued, and included.”
While anti-Muslim hate crimes rose following 9/11, Jews were targeted more frequently than all other groups combined in New York City in 2024, with anti-Jewish incidents accounting for 54% of all hate crimes, according to The Times of Israel.
The Institute for Social Policy and Understanding reports that Muslims in New York City make up 12.5% of pharmacists, 40% of taxi drivers, and more than 57% of street food vendors.
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