Historic Oath Ceremony for New York’s First Muslim Mayor

The upcoming public ceremony on Friday marks a monumental moment for New York City, as Zohran Mamdani prepares to take his oath of office, holding two family editions of the Quran along with a historic 19th-century copy. As the first Muslim and South Asian mayor of the United States’ largest city, Mamdani’s swearing-in ceremony is steeped in personal and collective history.

A Unique Swearing-in Ceremony

On Thursday, Mamdani became the first-ever New York City mayor to be sworn in on a Quran. He utilized his grandfather’s Quran alongside a two-century-old edition from the New York Public Library (NYPL) during a private ceremony at an unused subway station beneath Times Square. For the public event at City Hall on Friday, he plans to incorporate two more Qurans that belonged to his grandparents.

The Historical Significance of the Quran

The Quran borrowed from the library holds rich historical value; it once belonged to Arturo Schomburg, a notable Black historian and writer. Schomburg’s extensive collection of books, which he sold to the NYPL in 1926, laid the foundation for the Schomburg Center for Research in Black Culture. Born in Puerto Rico in the 1870s, Schomburg was a vital figure in the Harlem Renaissance, a time of significant cultural and artistic growth in New York’s Black community.

A Recognition of Inclusion and Heritage

The NYPL commended Mamdani’s choice to use Schomburg’s Quran, emphasizing its link to an influential scholar and its everyday practicality. The library noted that the Quran’s small size and its black and red ink design indicate it was made for regular use. While unsigned and undated, the “minute naskh script and gilt-stamped floral binding suggest it originated in Ottoman Syria during the 19th century.”

“The significance of this Quran extends far beyond the beauty of its pages,” said Hiba Abid, curator of Middle Eastern and Islamic studies.

Abid further highlighted its relevance as it resides within the nation’s largest public library system, making it “a Quran close to the people.” Anthony W. Marx, the library’s president, remarked that the choice symbolizes a larger narrative of inclusion and civic responsibility.

Political Landscape and Community Engagement

Among U.S. politicians who have taken oaths on the Quran, Mamdani stands out. Although New York law does not mandate mayors to swear in on a religious text, many previous mayors have opted for the Bible. Former mayors like Michael Bloomberg and Bill de Blasio used family Bibles for their oaths, while Mamdani’s predecessor, Eric Adams, did the same.

Mamdani’s campaign prominently featured his faith and his identity as a Ugandan-born American of South Asian heritage, celebrating the city’s diversity. In social media videos, he openly discussed the aftermath of the September 11 attacks and the resulting surge in Islamophobia. Additionally, he shared narratives from various New Yorkers, including those from the Muslim and immigrant communities.

A staunch critic of Israel’s policies towards Palestinians, Mamdani has faced criticism from figures, including Representative Elise Stefanik, who attacked his leftist ideology and politicized aspects of his background. Despite this, he remains steadfast. In a campaign speech, he asserted, “I will not change who I am, how I eat, or the faith that I’m proud to call my own. I will find myself in the light.”

Conclusion

As Zohran Mamdani steps into his new role as mayor, he carries forward a legacy that intertwines personal convictions with a historical narrative. This unique swearing-in ceremony not only marks a milestone in his life but also represents a broader commitment to diversity and inclusion within New York City.

Mamdani becomes New York City’s first Muslim and South Asian mayor.
He will use family Qurans and a historic copy from the NYPL during his swearing-in ceremony.
The ceremony highlights the contributions of Arturo Schomburg to Black culture and history.
Mamdani emphasizes the importance of representation and inclusivity in his campaign and future leadership.