New York Governor Kathy Hochul has ignited a significant political and cultural debate after ordering the illumination of the World Trade Center site in green lights to mark the state's first official Muslim American Heritage Month.
A Landmark Decision and Immediate Backlash
The Democrat, 67, directed that 16 prominent landmarks across New York State, including the One World Trade Center – often called the Freedom Tower – be bathed in green light throughout January. In a statement, Hochul emphasised the resilience, compassion, and contributions of Muslim communities, noting that New York is home to the largest Muslim American population in the United States and is committed to being a 'beacon of hope, tolerance, and inclusivity.'
However, the decision to include the World Trade Center complex proved deeply contentious. The original Twin Towers were destroyed in the September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks carried out by the Islamic extremist group Al-Qaeda. For many, the symbolic gesture was a painful affront.
'It’s disgusting that the Freedom Tower – which stands at the World Trade Center site - is lit in green to celebrate Islam,' wrote Angela Morabito, a spokeswoman for the Defense of Freedom Institute, on social media platform X. Other users expressed shock and anger, with one asking, 'I thought New York would always remember. This is disgraceful.'
Historic Timing and Political Support
The proclamation came just one day after New York City inaugurated its first Muslim and South Asian mayor, Democratic Socialist Zohran Mamdani, who was sworn into office using a Quran. Governor Hochul pledged that her administration would protect Muslim New Yorkers from 'Islamophobia, hate, bias, and harm,' referencing prejudice Mamdani faced during his campaign.
Mayor Mamdani and other Muslim leaders strongly endorsed the governor's move. 'Muslims have been part of New York for centuries,' Mamdani stated. 'I am grateful for Governor Hochul’s leadership in recognising these many contributions.'
Assemblyman Charles D. Fall and NYC Councilmember Shahana Hanif were among those who celebrated the decision. Hanif noted, 'This recognition is more than symbolic - it affirms that New York’s history and future cannot be told without its Muslim communities.'
The Broader Celebration and Lasting Impact
Beyond the World Trade Center, other structures illuminated in green include Grand Central Terminal, the Empire State Plaza in Albany, Niagara Falls, and the Governor Mario M. Cuomo Bridge. The move highlights the substantial role Muslim Americans play in New York's civic and economic life.
According to the Institute of Social Policy, Muslim Americans constitute 57 percent of street food vendors, 40 percent of taxi drivers, and 12.5 percent of pharmacists in New York City alone. Governor Hochul's proclamation aims to formally acknowledge this integral part of the state's fabric every January moving forward.
The controversy underscores the delicate balance between honouring a community's heritage and being sensitive to the profound wounds of history, setting a precedent that will likely be debated long after the green lights are switched off.
