Zohran Mamdani, New York City’s first Muslim mayor, marked the start of Ramadan 1447 Hijri (February 18, 2026) with warm, personal reflections that resonated widely.
In a press conference and social media posts on the first day of fasting, he shared: “Ramadan is my favorite month of the year.” He joked about feeling “parched” right now, but emphasized the deeper meaning: “This is a month of reflection, it’s a month of solidarity.”
As the city’s first Muslim leader (sworn in on January 1, 2026, after winning the November 2025 election), Mamdani highlighted how Ramadan fosters community and unity beyond just abstaining from food and drink from sunrise to sunset.
He said it’s about “a chance to actually reflect” and connect with people, looking forward to iftar dinners, service projects, and meeting Muslims across New York’s diverse neighborhoods, where over half a million observant Muslims live.
Mamdani’s words struck a chord online, with clips from CBS News, NY1, Middle East Eye, and social media going viral. Many praised his openness, calling it inspiring for blending faith with public leadership. He noted the month is often reduced to fasting alone, but its true drive is empathy, patience, and shared humanity, values he hopes to embody while running the nation’s largest city.
This Ramadan marks a historic moment: the first time New York has a Muslim mayor observing the holy month in office. Mamdani’s message promotes inclusivity and reminds everyone that Ramadan is a mindset of compassion, not just a ritual.
As he balances governance with personal devotion, his words inspire Muslims and non-Muslims alike to embrace reflection and solidarity in challenging times.
