State Government and Religion

New York Gov. Kathy Hochul issued a proclamation declaring January Muslim American Heritage Month across the state and ordered 16 state landmarks, including One World Trade Center, to be illuminated green Friday night to honor Muslim Americans’ heritage and culture. The move, which follows Zohran Mamdani’s swearing‑in as New York City’s first Muslim mayor on the Quran, drew praise from Muslim elected officials and community leaders who framed it as recognition of long‑standing contributions and resilience amid post‑9/11 discrimination.