New York's Governor, Kathy Hochul, has ignited a significant political and cultural debate after ordering the illumination of the World Trade Center and other major landmarks in green lights to mark the inaugural Muslim American Heritage Month.
A Landmark Decision and Immediate Backlash
The Democratic governor, 67, directed that 16 sites across the Empire State, including the iconic One World Trade Center – also known as the Freedom Tower – be bathed in green light throughout January. In a statement, Hochul emphasised 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 site 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.'
Political Support and Historic Context
The proclamation and illuminations coincided closely with the inauguration of Zohran Mamdani as Mayor of New York City. Mamdani, a Democratic Socialist, is the first Muslim and South Asian mayor in the city's history and was sworn into office using a Quran. Governor Hochul has pledged that the state government will protect Muslim communities from 'Islamophobia, hate, bias, and harm,' referencing prejudice faced during Mamdani's campaign.
Mayor Mamdani and other Muslim leaders strongly endorsed the governor's actions. '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 welcomed the move. 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 Economic Contributions
This is the first time New York has officially proclaimed a Muslim American Heritage Month. The list of structures illuminated extends beyond the WTC to include:
- Grand Central Terminal in Manhattan
- The Empire State Plaza in Albany
- Niagara Falls
- The Governor Mario M. Cuomo Bridge
- The Moynihan Train Hall
The celebration also highlights the substantial economic and social contributions of Muslim Americans in New York. According to the Institute of Social Policy, within New York City alone, Muslim Americans comprise 57 percent of street food vendors, 40 percent of taxi drivers, and 12.5 percent of pharmacists.
While intended as a unifying gesture of inclusion, Governor Hochul's decision has laid bare enduring sensitivities and the complex process of commemoration in a state still shaped by the legacy of 9/11.
