NYC Mayor Zohran Mamdani Reflects on Ramadan

Feb 20, 2026

73 min

Feb 20, 2026 17:30

Ramadan reflections: NYC mayor Zohran Mamdani shares why it’s his favourite month

## A Month of Reflection and Community

New York City's first Muslim mayor, Zohran Mamdani, has expressed his appreciation for Ramadan, highlighting it as a time for reflection, community, and solidarity. He emphasized that the holy month is about more than just fasting from dawn to dusk.

## Marking Ramadan in New York

As Ramadan commenced, over a million Muslims in New York began their fasts. Mayor Mamdani participated in a housing event and expressed his eagerness to engage with communities through iftar gatherings and volunteer activities. He also extended a "Ramadan Mubarak" greeting to residents via YouTube.

## Personal Significance

Ramadan holds personal importance for Mamdani, who grew up in Kampala, Uganda, and has a multicultural background. He shared a video of his iftar meal featuring Middle Eastern and South Asian dishes, reflecting both his heritage and the diverse experiences of New Yorkers.

## Community Perspectives

Council Member Yusef Salaam and Yahaya Abubakar from the Islamic Cultural Center of New York highlighted Ramadan as a period for self-reflection and spiritual growth. Sheikh Imam Chernor Sa’ad Jalloh noted the importance of strengthening one's connection with God during this time.

## Engaging the City

Mamdani plans to host iftar meals with various working groups, including firefighters and night-shift workers, to ensure the observance of Ramadan across the city. His senior aide, Zara Rahim, mentioned that the mayor will continue fasting while fulfilling his duties, demonstrating a balance of spiritual and civic responsibilities.

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