New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani turned heads on Wednesday when he attended Eid al-Adha prayers in the Bronx, donning a distinctive Arsenal-themed kurta. The city's first Muslim mayor, an avid supporter of the English Premier League club, paired the long blue-and-black garment with red-striped sleeves for the religious event. He was joined by fellow Democratic socialist Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez of New York.
Mayor's Message of Solidarity
In a post on social media platform X, Mamdani reflected on the significance of Eid al-Adha. 'Today as we honor Prophet Ibrahim, Eid al-Adha reminds us that sacrifice is not a burden,' he wrote. 'It is an opportunity to see ourselves as part of something larger. To extend a hand to those who need it most.' He added, 'I am honored to be New York City’s first Muslim Mayor, and I am determined to lead through solidarity. Together, we are working to ensure every New Yorker can afford the groceries, housing, and child care they need.' He concluded, 'Our solidarity is our strength.'
Background of the Mayor
Mamdani, who was born and raised in Uganda, is New York's first Muslim and Asian-American mayor. His passion for Arsenal began at age 10 when his uncle gifted him a set of fridge magnets featuring Gunners stars such as Sylvain Wiltord, David Seaman, Sol Campbell, and Thierry Henry. The club recently clinched the English Premier League title and is set to face Paris-Saint-Germain in the Champions League final on Saturday, May 30.
