Opinion: Why a Muslim mayor and Jewish Speaker embody the spirit of New York

New York City is unlike any other city in the world and we constantly remind each other, and anyone else who will listen, of that fact. But today, New York is showing once again why it truly stands apart.

As a Muslim woman whose work and social activism are inextricably linked in New York, I am proud to see this city shatter the glass ceiling, by electing its first Muslim mayor. New York is a city that embraces differences and believes leadership should be defined by ideas, compassion and service, not by background or faith. Zohran Mamdani’s victory sends a message to the world that anyone can rise to the top regardless of creed, color or religious background. He has spoken honestly about his policy goals, and he has always made clear his commitment to the quality of life for all who call this city home. 

At the same time, the New York City Council may soon make history of its own by electing its first Jewish speaker. In the face of rising Islamophobia and antisemitism, this is our chance to prove that New York rejects hate and stands firmly by its values. Council Member Julie Menin is the candidate for Speaker who has not just preached these values but has lived them, a fact I know from personal experience.

I know what it means to be told you don't belong. Nearly a decade after 9/11, I proposed an Islamic cultural center near Ground Zero to create dialogue and healing. But what I hoped would be a symbol of reconciliation became a lightning rod for division. I still remember the sting of the opposition's words: "Not you, not here, not now." That wasn't just a rejection of a building; it was a rejection of our very belonging.

In that difficult moment, Menin stood out. While many backed away, she, as chair of her Community Board, stood firm despite receiving death threats. She publicly supported the project and guided her board to an overwhelming vote in favor, defending the principle that Muslim New Yorkers deserve the same respect and religious freedom as anyone else. Her courage to stand up when it was not politically convenient revealed the exact moral clarity our city needs in its leadership.

That commitment to combating all forms of hate has continued throughout her public service. As a Council member, she helped create a groundbreaking public-private partnership with the Museum of Jewish Heritage that ensured every eighth-grade public school student visits the museum to learn about the Holocaust and the consequences of hate speech. 

Beyond her moral character, Menin has proven she knows how to deliver results. Her experience as a three-time city commissioner and as a Council member has shown that she can make government work to uplift families, our business corridors and everyday New Yorkers. This relentless focus on effective governance hasn't just delivered services; it has laid the foundation for the historic moment our city is now embracing.

Imagine New York, a living, breathing example of interfaith leadership – a Muslim mayor, a Jewish speaker and a Christian governor. This is the Abraham Accords, realized in our own backyard. History shows us a powerful pattern: when New York adopts an idea, the world embraces it. We are not just a city. We are an exemplar, an influencer. And this powerful imagery of multifaith leadership can offer a working model for peaceful coexistence around the world.

Mamdani’s vision for an inclusive city isn't just a promise. It's a goal that leaders like Menin have already been working toward, proving it's achievable. When New York is led by a Christian governor, a Jewish speaker, and a Muslim mayor – our own “New York Accord,” working together to deliver for all – it does more than break every stereotype. It shows the world what truly unified leadership looks like.