In a move that has sparked considerable debate, New York City's newly inaugurated Mayor, Zohran Mamdani, a Muslim-American, was sworn in just hours before Governor Kathy Hochul declared January as "Muslim American Heritage Month," illuminating One World Trade Center and 15 other state landmarks in green to honor the contributions of Muslim Americans.
According to RedState, this decision has not been without controversy, as many on social media were quick to highlight the absence of the Twin Towers from the skyline, a stark reminder of the tragic 9/11 attacks perpetrated by al-Qaeda, which claimed nearly 3,000 lives. The memory of September 11, a day etched into the collective consciousness of Americans, was seemingly overlooked in Hochul's announcement.
"The resilience, compassion, and contributions of Muslim communities help make our state stronger," Hochul stated, as landmarks across New York were lit in green to mark the occasion.
Governor Hochul also issued a statement pledging to shield Muslims from Islamophobia, yet conspicuously omitted any reference to a recent NYPD report indicating that Jews were the most targeted minority group in New York City in 2024, accounting for over 54 percent of all hate crimes. "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 expressed in her statement.
She further emphasized New York's commitment to being a "beacon of hope, tolerance, and inclusivity" for its Muslim American residents.
In a related development, Mayor Mamdani, in one of his initial actions, revoked several executive orders from his predecessor, Eric Adams, which had been aimed at combating antisemitism, a decision that has drawn ire from the state of Israel and numerous Jewish organizations. While local Muslim politicians and groups have welcomed the declaration of Appreciation Month and the symbolic green lights, the move has also faced significant backlash on social media.
A conservative author criticized the gesture, stating, "The betrayal of the nation's veterans continues," while another commentator remarked, "Lighting One World Trade Center green for Muslim American Heritage Monthon the site where al-Qaeda terrorists murdered 3,000 in the name of radical Islamis a profound insult to 9/11 victims, survivors, and first responders."
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