Moments after Zohran Mamdani was inaugurated as New York City’s first Muslim-American Mayor, Governor Kathy Hochul announced January as “Muslim American Heritage Month.” In a symbolic tribute, she directed One World Trade Center and 15 other state landmarks to be illuminated in green, paying homage to the rich heritage and culture of Muslim Americans.

This gesture, however, stirred up a whirlwind of reactions on social media. Many recalled the absence of the Twin Towers from New York’s skyline, a somber reminder of the devastating September 11 attacks. Carried out by 19 al-Qaeda hijackers under the command of Osama bin Laden, these attacks claimed nearly 3,000 lives and left an indelible mark on the nation.

Despite the historical weight of 9/11, Governor Hochul seemed focused on the present as she pledged her commitment to shielding Muslims from Islamophobia. Her statement, however, did not address a recent NYPD report highlighting a different issue—the alarming rate of hate crimes against Jewish communities. In 2024, this group was disproportionately targeted, accounting for over 54 percent of all hate crimes in New York City.

Governor Hochul:

The resilience, compassion, and contributions of Muslim communities help make our state stronger.

Tonight landmarks across the state are lit green as New York celebrates Muslim American Heritage Month. pic.twitter.com/5AFw9dsgof

— Governor Kathy Hochul (@GovKathyHochul) January 2, 2026

The governor also released a statement vowing to protect Muslims from Islamophobia. She did not mention a report released Monday from the NYPD, which showed that Jews were targeted more than all other minority groups combined in the Big Apple in 2024, and combined for more than 54 percent of all hate crimes in the city. 

Hochul:

“Home to the largest Muslim American population in the nation, New York is proud to join in this month-long celebration, recognizing the values, faith and traditions of our Muslim American communities,” Hochul said in a statement. 

“New York remains committed to being a beacon of hope, tolerance, and inclusivity that celebrates the diversity of its Muslim American population and protects them from Islamophobia, hate, bias, and harm.”

Meanwhile, Mamdani, in one of his first acts in office, rescinded several executive orders from his predecessor, Eric Adams, that targeted antisemitism. The state of Israel and many Jewish organizations were outraged. 

READ MORE: It’s Time to Escape From New York

Never Forget, Never Fade: Why 9/11 Deserves a National Holiday

Although local Muslim politicians and groups were pleased with the Appreciation Month and the green lights, there was plenty of negative reaction on social media as well. One conservative author wrote, “The betrayal of the nation’s veterans continues.” Another blistered:

Lighting One World Trade Center green for Muslim American Heritage Month—on the site where al-Qaeda terrorists murdered 3,000 in the name of radical Islam—is a profound insult to 9/11 victims, survivors, and first responders. Tone-deaf doesn’t begin to cover it.

Interesting — I wonder why Hochul waited till 6:49 p.m. to post the move, which is almost certain to provoke reactions from many? If you’re going to be bold, why not be bold in the sunlight of the day?

President Donald Trump has not weighed in as of this hour, but I’m betting he will at some point.

RedState will keep you updated on this story as reaction comes in.

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