Former Governor Andrew Cuomo visited the Darou Salam Islamic Community Mosque in the Bronx on Friday during Jummah prayers, where he met with congregants and reaffirmed his commitment to inclusivity, education, and public safety.
Imam Bamba Hedree welcomed Cuomo’s visit, highlighting its importance to the community. “We thank Andrew Cuomo for visiting our mosque today in the Bronx, and for continuing to make time to visit mosques across the city,” the imam stated. He emphasized that Cuomo’s willingness to engage directly with Muslim New Yorkers showed respect and understanding.
The imam also drew attention to Cuomo’s support for establishing New York City’s first Arabic Language Charter School, describing it as a step that reflects the city’s diversity. “We welcome his vision for the city, including his commitment to support New York City’s first Arabic language charter school, and the priorities he has laid out for his first 100 days in office re: public safety and education,” he added.
The push for an Arabic Language Charter School has gained momentum across the Muslim community, which views the school as both historic and necessary. New York City already hosts language-focused charter schools such as the Hebrew Language Academy, Hellenic Classical Charter Schools, and the New York French American Charter School. Supporters argue that offering Arabic instruction is consistent with these models and vital for nearly 200,000 students who are Arabic speakers or come from Muslim households.
Cuomo expressed gratitude for the opportunity to meet with the Bronx congregation, noting his commitment to building “a safer, more affordable, and more inclusive New York City for everyone.”
