Zohran Mamdani will be sworn in as mayor of New York City at midnight, marking a series of historic firsts. He will take his oath of office on a centuries-old Quran, the first time a mayor of the city has used Islam’s holy text for the ceremony.
A First for New York City
The 34-year-old Democrat will be inaugurated in a long-closed subway station beneath City Hall. Mamdani will be the first Muslim, first South Asian, and first African-born person to hold the office of mayor.
While most of his predecessors were sworn in on a Bible, the oath itself does not require the use of any religious text. Mamdani frequently appeared at mosques throughout the five boroughs during his campaign, building support among South Asian and Muslim voters.
The Qurans and Their Significance
Mamdani will use two Qurans during the subway ceremony: his grandfather’s Quran and the historical manuscript from the Schomburg Center. For a subsequent ceremony at City Hall on the first day of the year, he will use both his grandfather’s and grandmother’s Qurans.
Hiba Abid, the curator for Middle Eastern and Islamic Studies at the New York Public Library, explained that the manuscript symbolizes the diversity of Muslims in New York City. “It’s a small Quran, but it brings together elements of faith and identity in New York City history,” she said.
The manuscript was acquired by Arturo Schomburg, a historian who documented the contributions of people of African descent. Scholars believe its modest design – a deep red binding with simple floral details and readable script – indicates it was intended for everyday use, emphasizing accessibility over luxury.
A Response to Hostility
Mamdani’s rise has been met with Islamophobic rhetoric, which he addressed in a speech before the election. He stated, “I will not change who I am, how I eat, or the faith that I’m proud to call my own. I will no longer look for myself in the shadows. I will find myself in the light.”
The decision to use a Quran has drawn criticism from some, including U.S. Senator Tommy Tuberville of Alabama, who wrote on social media, “The enemy is inside the gates.” The Council on American-Islamic Relations has designated Tuberville as an anti-Muslim extremist.
Following the inauguration, the historical Quran will be put on public display at the New York Public Library, where Abid hopes it will encourage exploration of the library’s collections documenting Islamic life in New York.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes this inauguration historically significant?
This inauguration marks the first time a Muslim, South Asian, and African-born person has been elected mayor of New York City. It is also the first time a Quran has been used for the mayoral oath of office.
Where will the inauguration take place?
The inauguration will take place at midnight in a long-closed subway station beneath City Hall.
What is the significance of the Quran being used?
The Quran symbolizes the diversity and reach of the Muslim community in New York City, and reflects Mamdani’s own identity and faith.
As Mayor Mamdani begins his term, how might this historic inauguration shape the conversations and priorities of his administration?
