By Jake Chang

New York Governor Kathy Hochul issued a proclamation this past Friday declaring January as Muslim American Heritage Month for the first time in New York State history.

The recognition is cited to recognize the achievements and contributions of Muslim Americans in the arts, sciences, mathematics, technology, literature, music, medicine, and philosophy. It also aims to encourage the appreciation and understanding of the cultures, histories, and principles of Muslim American communities, according to a press release.

In addition to the proclamation, Hochul directed 16 notable landmarks across the state to be illuminated green Friday evening in honor of Muslim American Heritage Month, Fox News reported. Among them included New York City’s One World Trade Center and the Empire State Plaza.

“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,” Hochul 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.”

Upwards of one million Muslim Americans live in New York. Recently, newly elected New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani was sworn in with the Quran as the first Muslim mayor of the city.

To read the entire article: https://asamnews.com/2026/01/03/new-york-governor-declares-january-muslim-american-heritage-month/