CAIR, CAIR-NY Call Mayor Mamdani’s Inauguration a ‘Historic Moment of Progress’ for American Muslims and Entire Nation

(NEW YORK, NY, 1/1/26) — Muslim civil rights and advocacy group says Mamdani’s victory marks a major defeat for anti-Muslim bigotry and the Israel First lobby 

(WASHINGTON, D.C., 1/1/2026) – The New York chapter and national headquarters of the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR), the nation’s largest Muslim civil rights and advocacy organization, today called Zohran Mamdani’s swearing-in as New York City’s first Muslim mayor is a “historic moment of progress” for the entire nation, American Muslim public service and all advocates for justice.

SEE: Zohran Mamdani chose a Quran full of symbolism for his mayoral oath – Associated Press

SEE ALSO: In Mamdani’s New York, Muslims become a political and demographic force – Washington Post

In a statement, National Executive Director Nihad Awad said:

“We congratulate Mayor Zohran Mamdani on his historic achievement as the first American Muslim to serve as the leader of New York City. 

“Mayor Mamdani’s inauguration marks a historic turning point and a historic moment of progress for not only the people of New York City, but also American Muslim political progress and all advocates for justice. Mayor Mamdani won despite the massive amount of time and money invested in hateful attacks on his faith and dishonest attacks on his support for Palestinian human rights. His victory delivered a clear message: the Israel First lobby is losing political power and anti-Muslim bigotry is losing its power as a political weapon.

“We also recognize the meaningful symbolism of Zohran taking his oath of office on the Quran like other Muslim elected officials before him. This act underscores the constitutional promise that people of all faiths can serve their country. It is a testament to the strength of religious freedom in America and a moment of pride for countless Muslim families to see their faith reflected in public life.”

In a statement, CAIR-NY Executive Director Afaf Nasher, Esq. who also served on one of Mayor Mamdani’s transition committees, said:

“We congratulate Mayor Mamdani and the people of New York City for this historic moment of progress for our city. Mayor Mamdani’s inauguration represents a historic turning point for New York City voters who seek an affordable city where all people can live up to their full potential and who expect a city leadership that embraces and reflects all New Yorkers, including New York Muslims.

“It is important to note that Mayor Zohran Mamdani’s inauguration is a historic milestone that carries deep significance for American Muslims and for our nation as a whole. His swearing‑in reflects not only the growing diversity of American public life, but also the continued affirmation that people of all backgrounds have a place in shaping our nation.

“For American Muslims, this moment reflects the progress our communities have made in civic engagement, public service and leadership, often in the face of extreme anti-Muslim bigotry and opposition to our calls for an end to U.S. support for Israel’s abuses of Palestinians. Zohran’s inauguration is a reminder that our stories, our voices and our contributions are an integral part of the American fabric.

“We celebrate this milestone and reaffirm our commitment to ensuring that every American, regardless of their faith or background, has the opportunity to participate fully and equally in our democracy. Moments like this remind us of how far we have come and inspire us to continue the work ahead.”

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

La misión de CAIR-NY es proteger las libertades civiles, mejorar la comprensión del Islam, promover la justicia, y empoderar a los musulmanes en los Estados Unidos. 

END 

CONTACT: CONTACT: Afaf Nasher, Esq., CAIR-NY Executive Director, 917-669-4006, anasher@cair.com; CAIR-NY Communications Team, comms@ny.cair.com;CAIR National Deputy Director Edward Ahmed Mitchell, 404-285-9530, e-Mitchell@cair.com; CAIR Government Affairs Director Robert McCaw, 202-742-6448, rmccaw@cair.com; CAIR National Communications Director Ibrahim Hooper, 202-744-7726, ihooper@cair.com; CAIR National Communications Manager Ismail Allison, 202-770-6280, iallison@cair.com