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Zohran Mamdani to Take Oath on Quran as New York City Mayor Today
Incoming New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani is set to make history today as he takes his oath of office on a centuries-old Quran. This historic moment marks him as the first mayor of the city to be sworn in on Islam’s holy book. At just 34, Mamdani stands as the first Muslim, the first South Asian, and the first African-born individual to assume this prominent executive position in the city, with his term officially beginning shortly after midnight on New Year’s Day.
Why There Are Two Oath-Taking Ceremonies
In line with an established New York tradition, Mamdani’s inauguration features two distinct swearing-in ceremonies:
– Private Ceremony:
– Scheduled just after midnight, this intimate event will be attended by close family members.
– The unique venue is the former City Hall subway station in Manhattan, a crucial part of New York City’s early underground transit system, closed since 1945 and rarely accessible to the public.
– Mamdani’s office conveyed that this choice reflects his “commitment to the working people who keep our city running every day.”
– Public Ceremony:
– Later today, Mamdani will participate in a public swearing-in on the steps of City Hall, slated to begin at 1 PM local time.
– The Mayor-elect’s public oath will be administered by Senator Bernie Sanders, a significant political inspiration for him.
– Opening remarks will come from Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, a close ally.
Mamdani’s Vision and Significance
Mamdani has articulated a desire to revisit the era when New York heavily invested in public infrastructure, aiming to enhance daily life for all its residents. His choice of the City Hall subway station signifies this commitment.
With prominent figures in attendance and symbolic venues selected for both ceremonies, Mamdani’s inauguration promises to blend tradition with progress, highlighting a quintessentially New York sense of theater.
In conclusion, as Zohran Mamdani takes his oath on the Quran today, he embarks on a historic journey that exemplifies diversity and change in leadership. This moment heralds a new era for New York City, where tradition meets innovation.