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Governor Hochul Declares Muslim Heritage Month Amid Controversy

1/4/2026

Summary

Story summary

New York Governor Kathy Hochul declared January Muslim American Heritage Month and ordered 16 state landmarks, including One World Trade Center, lit in green.
The decision drew backlash from critics who called it tone deaf and disgusting because of the site’s association with the 9/11 attacks.
Supporters, including NYC's first Muslim mayor Zohran Mamdani, praised recognizing Muslim contributions, while Hochul framed the move as inclusive amid rising hate crimes.

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Story summary

New York Governor Kathy Hochul declared January Muslim American Heritage Month and ordered 16 state landmarks, including One World Trade Center, lit in green.
The decision drew backlash from critics who called it tone deaf and disgusting because of the site’s association with the 9/11 attacks.
Supporters, including NYC's first Muslim mayor Zohran Mamdani, praised recognizing Muslim contributions, while Hochul framed the move as inclusive amid rising hate crimes.