New York State has officially designated January 2026 as Muslim American Heritage Month for the first time, marking a significant step in recognizing the historical, cultural, and civic contributions of Muslim Americans. Governor Kathy Hochul announced the proclamation as part of the state’s broader commitment to inclusion and its rejection of Islamophobia, hate, and discrimination. To mark the occasion, major landmarks including One World Trade Center, the Kosciuszko Bridge, Niagara Falls, and Empire State Plaza will be lit in green.

The designation comes at a moment of heightened visibility for Muslims in New York, following the election of Zohran Mamdani as New York City’s first Muslim mayor, though officials stressed the two developments are not formally linked. Mamdani welcomed the move, noting that Muslim communities have long been woven into the city’s social, economic, and cultural life. State leaders emphasized that the proclamation reflects longstanding realities rather than recent political shifts.

New York is home to one of the largest Muslim populations in the United States, with state estimates placing the number at around 724,000 people, roughly 3.7 percent of the population. The majority reside in New York City, where Muslims are estimated to make up about 8 percent of residents. Assemblyman Charles D. Fall, the first Muslim elected to the state assembly from Staten Island, said the recognition affirms the everyday role Muslim New Yorkers play as workers, entrepreneurs, and public servants across the state.