NEW YORK — In a historic moment for New York City, incoming Mayor Zohran Mamdani took his midnight oath of office using a centuries-old Quran, becoming the first Muslim to hold the mayoral position. The historic ceremony took place in a long-closed subway station beneath City Hall, marking a significant milestone not just for Mamdani, but for the diverse Muslim community of the nation’s most populous city. At just 34 years old, this Democratic mayoral candidate is also recognized as the first South Asian and first African-born mayor of New York.
This moment highlights Mamdani's devout commitment to his Muslim faith, as he often campaigned in mosques across the five boroughs, advocating for issues like affordability while connecting deeply with South Asian and Muslim voters.
The Quran used in his swearing-in reflects the rich diversity and history of Muslim New Yorkers. Curators note the significance of one Quran in particular, which is believed to date back to the late 18th or early 19th century, showcasing both faith and identity in the fabric of New York City's history. Two additional Qurans, belonging to his grandparents, will be used for his formal ceremony at City Hall later.
Mamdani's rise has not come without controversy; his election attracted increased Islamophobic rhetoric. Undeterred, he expressed an unwavering commitment to his identity in the face of hostility.
I will not change who I am, how I eat, or the faith that I’m proud to call my own, Mamdani stated in an emotional speech just days before the election. The Quran will be on public display at the New York Public Library following the ceremony, encouraging broader community engagement with the contributions of Islamic life in New York.
This moment highlights Mamdani's devout commitment to his Muslim faith, as he often campaigned in mosques across the five boroughs, advocating for issues like affordability while connecting deeply with South Asian and Muslim voters.
The Quran used in his swearing-in reflects the rich diversity and history of Muslim New Yorkers. Curators note the significance of one Quran in particular, which is believed to date back to the late 18th or early 19th century, showcasing both faith and identity in the fabric of New York City's history. Two additional Qurans, belonging to his grandparents, will be used for his formal ceremony at City Hall later.
Mamdani's rise has not come without controversy; his election attracted increased Islamophobic rhetoric. Undeterred, he expressed an unwavering commitment to his identity in the face of hostility.
I will not change who I am, how I eat, or the faith that I’m proud to call my own, Mamdani stated in an emotional speech just days before the election. The Quran will be on public display at the New York Public Library following the ceremony, encouraging broader community engagement with the contributions of Islamic life in New York.
