New York City Welcomes the Call to Prayer
The move aims to eliminate barriers and promote understanding among diverse communities
Mayor Adams while taking a historic step to embrace Adhan
In an inspiring move celebrating religious diversity, New York City has taken a significant step forward by allowing the Islamic call to prayer, known as the adhan, to be publicly broadcast on Friday and during the Holy month of Ramadan.
Mayor Eric Adams, joined by a Muslim leader at a press conference in City Hall, emphasized the importance of unity and understanding among the city's diverse population.
The mayor said, "Today, we are cutting red tape and saying clearly that mosques and houses of worship are free to amplify their call to prayer on Fridays and during Ramadan without a permit necessary.”
Eric allowing Muslim Call to prayerAdams, who is a member of the Democratic party, has strong bonds with leaders from different faiths. He has also supported the influence of religion in our public life.
The adhan holds great significance for Muslims worldwide, serving as a religious practice and a symbol of unity, reflection, and community.
The executive director of the New York's Council on American-Islamic Relations, Afaf Nasher, said, "We believe that this action will contribute to greater understanding and appreciation of the Muslim community's values and traditions."
The initiative taken by NYPD further clarifies that a call to prayer is permissible in NYC and "not prohibited despite sound restrictions in city neighborhoods."
In the updated rules, a mosque can now play the call to prayer, known as adhan, every Friday between 12:30 p.m. and 1:30 p.m. It's also allowed before the evening meal during Ramadan, called iftar. Muslim community members thanked the mayor and other leaders for this decision.
At the end of the meeting, the adhan was recited from the stage, and an explanation was in English.
The new guidance is still subject to some rules and restrictions. For instance, the Adhan cannot be broadcasted at a loud volume, or that disturbs the peace of other communities. Still, this milestone decision is a great achievement for the Muslim community in New York City.
