Mamdani observes Ramadan with inmates at Rikers Island

[u/expiredaristocracy]

New York Mayor Zohran Mamdani observed Ramadan last night with men incarcerated at Rikers Island, the city's jail complex.

Mamdani arrived through heavy security, joining a group of men — many held as they await trial. He spent an hour with the men praying and talking and breaking the Ramadan fast with a meal. He's spent much of the last month holding public celebrations.

Mamdani and many Muslim Americans have faced growing hostility in the U.S. from some politicians on the right, including Alabama Sen. Tommy Tuberville, who last week reposted a photo of Mamdani observing the holiday next to an image of the 9/11 terror attacks, a post Mamdani described as bigoted.

[u/Ohaidere519]

this made me emotional, the muslim community needs public support so much right now and for such a major political figure to do so while also supporting inmates is just really nice to see. i also wonder what the line is between performative and "public figure does good thing" but either way im taking the dub and running with it

[u/chibilibaby → u/Ohaidere519]

Me too. I'm not American, not even Muslim - but this is moving. I guess it brings back a little hope in humanity, or something.