New York Governor Kathy Hochul faced significant backlash after ordering 16 state landmarks, including One World Trade Center, to be illuminated in green for Muslim American Heritage Month.
Critics on social media described the decision as “tone deaf” and inappropriate, given the site’s connection to the September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks.
Hochul signed a proclamation making January the first Muslim American Heritage Month in New York, highlighting the positive contributions of Muslim communities to the state.
She emphasized New York’s commitment to inclusivity and protecting Muslim residents from discrimination. The initiative was supported by New York City’s first Muslim mayor, Zohran Mamdani, who expressed pride in the recognition of the Muslim community’s longstanding presence and contributions in the city.
