Thu Jan 01 00:32:00 UTC 2026: Okay, here’s a summary and a rewritten news article based on the provided text:
Summary:
On January 1, 2026, Zohran Mamdani will be sworn in as the Mayor of New York City, marking several historic firsts: he’s the first Muslim, South Asian, and African-born person to hold the position. During the ceremony, he will take his oath on three Qurans, one belonging to his grandparents and another a historic pocket-sized manuscript from the New York Public Library’s Schomburg Center, symbolizing the diversity of the city’s Muslim community. The decision has garnered both support and criticism, with some conservatives expressing outrage. After the inauguration, the historic Quran will be displayed at the New York Public Library.
News Article:
Historic First: Zohran Mamdani Sworn in as NYC Mayor on Quran
New York, NY – January 1, 2026 – In a ceremony steeped in history and symbolism, Zohran Mamdani was sworn in early this morning as the Mayor of New York City. The 34-year-old Democrat achieved multiple historic milestones, becoming the first Muslim, first South Asian, and first African-born leader of the nation’s most populous city.
The inauguration took place in a long-closed subway station beneath City Hall, followed by a City Hall ceremony. Mamdani placed his hand on three Qurans during the oaths, signaling a profound shift and a recognition of the city’s vibrant Muslim community. Two Qurans belonged to his grandparents. The third, a pocket-sized Quran dating back to the late 18th or early 19th century from the New York Public Library’s Schomburg Center for Research in Black Culture, held particular significance. It symbolizes the diverse history of Islam in New York City. The manuscript was acquired by Arturo Schomburg, a Black Puerto Rican historian.
“The importance of this Quran lies not in luxury, but in accessibility,” said Hiba Abid, curator for Middle Eastern and Islamic Studies at the New York Public Library. She highlighted its connection to everyday readers and its representation of the intersection of faith and identity in New York City’s history.
Mamdani’s rise, fueled by a focus on affordability and a strong connection to Muslim and South Asian voters, has also drawn controversy. The decision to use a Quran has been met with backlash from some conservatives, including Senator Tommy Tuberville, who made inflammatory remarks on social media. The Council on American-Islamic Relations has criticized Tuberville’s comments as anti-Muslim.
Following the inauguration, the historic Quran from the Schomburg Center will be placed on public display at the New York Public Library, encouraging dialogue and exploration of Islamic life in New York City.
“This manuscript was meant to be used by ordinary readers when it was produced,” Abid stated. “Today it lives in a public library where anyone can encounter it.”
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