New Jersey Declares January as Muslim Heritage Month
Bringing Islamic tradition and culture to the west, Gov. Phil Murphy officially signed a decree on April 29 that will designate January as Muslim Heritage Month in New Jersey as a way to promote the religion across the State. For many years, passionate community and faith leaders have been actively rallying for this designation to happen. The historic moment will see the entire month packed with Muslim-based ceremonies, activities and educational programs.
“As a state that has the highest percentage of Muslims in the nation, we are so overjoyed to have a month that celebrates and recognizes our community in a positive light and hope that this recognition further pushes the engagement of the Muslim community in society,” said Zainab Syed, an organizer with American Muslims for Democracy, one of the organizers
The decision to make the entire month devoted to Islam was official after it received unanimous support from several lawmakers before it was sent to the governor. This kind of change will help promote greater understanding of Muslim heritage in New Jersey as well as help to place Muslim Americans’ contributions in the limelight.
