CAIR-NY Welcomes Governor Hochul’s Recognition of Muslim American Heritage Month

(New York, NY, 1/30/26) - The New York chapter of the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR-NY), a chapter of the nation’s largest Muslim civil rights and advocacy organization, welcomes Governor Kathy Hochul’s public recognition of Muslim American Heritage Month and her affirmation of the vital contributions Muslim communities make to New York State. 

In a recent social media post, Governor Hochul highlighted that New York is home to the largest Muslim population in the nation and celebrated Muslim New Yorkers as an essential part of the state’s strength and success. The post was accompanied by a video montage featuring Muslim New Yorkers from all over the state. 

SEE: Tweet from Governor Kathy Hochul 

In a statement, CAIR-NY Executive Director Afaf Nasher, Esq., said:  

“At a time when American Muslims continue to face rising Islamophobia, hate crimes, and harmful rhetoric, public recognition of New York’s vibrant Muslim population by elected officials is welcome . Muslims have always been an integral part of New York, helping to build the state in every sector. We hope videos like this encourage deeper inclusion of Muslims in all spheres of public and civic engagement.”

Muslim New Yorkers serve in every sector of society — including healthcare, education, public service, small business, and the arts — and have helped shape the cultural and economic fabric of the state for generations. 

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.  

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CONTACT  

Afaf Nasher, Esq. CAIR-NY Executive Director, ANasher@cair.com    

CAIR-NY Communications Team, comms@ny.cair.com