New York State has issued its first-ever proclamation officially declaring January as Muslim American Heritage Month, marking a historic recognition of the longstanding presence and contributions of Muslim Americans across the state.

Governor Kathy Hochul announced the designation, highlighting the role Muslim communities have played throughout history in shaping society across a wide range of fields, including the arts, sciences, mathematics, technology, literature, music, medicine and philosophy, SI Live reported.

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The proclamation formally acknowledges Muslim Americans as an integral part of New York’s social, cultural and civic fabric.

“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,” the governor said.

“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.”

As part of the recognition, several prominent state landmarks were illuminated green in support of Muslim American Heritage Month.

These included the Kosciuszko Bridge, One World Trade Center, the Governor Mario M. Cuomo Bridge, Niagara Falls, Moynihan Train Hall and the Empire State Plaza. In total, Governor Hochul directed that 16 state landmarks be lit to honor the history, culture and contributions of Muslim Americans across New York State.

Praise

New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani, who was sworn in as the city’s first Muslim mayor on January 1, welcomed the proclamation and emphasized the deep historical roots of Muslims in the state.

“Muslims have been part of New York for centuries. 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,” Mamdani said.

“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.”

Assemblymember Charles D. Fall, the first Muslim elected to the New York State Assembly from Staten Island, also welcomed the move, underscoring the importance of representation and recognition.

“Muslim New Yorkers are vital to our communities as neighbors, parents, business owners, and public servants. Governor Hochul’s proclamation reinforces a simple truth: New York works best when its leadership reflects the people it serves,” he said.

The New York chapter of the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR-NY) also welcomed the proclamation, noting that it marked the first time the State of New York has formally recognized Muslim American Heritage Month.

In a statement, Afaf Nasher, Esq., Executive Director of CAIR-NY, said the recognition comes at a critical time.

“The Muslim community has long been an integral part of New York’s social, economic and cultural fabric, contributing to fields including healthcare, education, public service, business, and the arts,” Nasher said.

“We hope this proclamation represents a first step toward greater inclusion, visibility and understanding at a time when Muslim communities continue to face rising Islamophobia domestically and dehumanization globally.”

She added: “This moment is meaningful for Muslim New Yorkers, whose contributions have helped shape this state for generations. Lighting state landmarks green sends a powerful message that Muslim Americans belong, are valued and are an essential part of New York’s diverse identity.”

CAIR-NY’s mission is to protect civil rights, enhance understanding of Islam, promote justice and empower American Muslims.