New York’s First Muslim Mayor Zohran Mamdani Takes Oath Holding the Holy Quran

New York City’s newly elected mayor, Zohran Mamdani, took the oath of office on Thursday, January 1, the first day of the year, in a simple and understated ceremony while holding the Holy Quran. With this historic moment, he became the first mayor in New York’s history to take the oath by touching the sacred Islamic scripture.

Mamdani won the election held on November 4, becoming New York City’s 111th mayor. In the race, he defeated former New York State governor and independent candidate Andrew Cuomo, as well as Republican candidate Curtis Sliwa. He is the city’s first Muslim mayor.

Oath Ceremony at a Subway Station

The 34-year-old Mamdani took his oath at an unused subway station beneath New York City Hall. His wife, Rama Duwaji, stood beside him during the ceremony. Through this, Mamdani was also recognized as New York’s first Muslim, first South Asian, and first mayor of African descent.

The ceremony was administered by New York Attorney General Letitia James. After taking the oath, Mamdani said he felt “truly honored.”

According to his office, the new mayor wants to work in close solidarity with ordinary people, a vision reflected in the simplicity of the ceremony.

Historic Copies of the Quran

At the special subway station ceremony, Mamdani held two copies of the Holy Quran—one previously used by his grandfather, and another a small pocket Quran dating back to the late 18th or early 19th century. The historic copy was taken from the collection of the Schomburg Center for Research in Black Culture at the New York Public Library.

On Friday, January 2, Mamdani is scheduled to attend another public swearing-in ceremony at New York City Hall, where he will again carry the Quran he inherited from his grandparents.

Reflection of the Muslim Community

New York, the most populous city in the United States, has a significant and vibrant Muslim population. Mamdani said he chose to take the oath holding the Holy Quran to reflect that presence. A researcher assisted his wife in selecting the historic copy of the Quran.

It is worth noting that neither federal, state, nor city constitutions require the use of any specific religious text for oath-taking. However, most previous New York mayors have traditionally taken their oaths on the Bible.

During his election campaign, Mamdani emphasized reducing the cost of living while remaining vocal about his Muslim identity. Through regular visits to mosques, he secured strong support from Muslim communities—particularly first-time voters among South Asian Muslims, who formed a significant part of his support base.