Brooklyn marked the start of Ramadan with a historic first Tuesday, as two illuminated crescents shone at Borough Hall to welcome the holy month.
On the first night of Ramadan, Borough President Antonio Reynoso invited community leaders and faith organizations to light the crescents at Brooklyn Borough Hall — the first time such a ceremony has taken place at the landmark building, often referred to as “The People’s House.”
The lighting was organized in collaboration with the Eid Committee, Emgage and the Muslim Community Network, and drew Brooklynites from across the borough’s diverse Muslim communities.
“Ramadan is a sacred holiday for Muslims across the world, and I am so proud to celebrate with Brooklyn’s diverse Muslim community at the People’s House, Brooklyn Borough Hall,” Reynoso said. “From the Arab community on Atlantic Avenue to the South Asian community on Coney Island Avenue, our borough has long been shaped and strengthened by our Muslim neighbors. To all our Muslim neighbors: Ramadan Mubarak!”
Ramadan is observed by Muslims around the world and reflects the global and diverse nature of Islam. A 2023 Public Religion Institute survey found that 4% of Brooklyn’s population is Muslim, while citywide, they make up 10% of the population.
Dr. Debbie Almontaser, CEO of Bridging Cultures Group, said the ceremony underscores Brooklyn’s leadership in recognizing its diverse communities.
“I’m proud of the borough I call home, Brooklyn, for yet again being a trendsetter among the boroughs with the first crescent lighting to mark the blessed month of Ramadan,” she said. “Many thanks to Borough President Antonio Reynoso and the Eid Committee for partnering with me, Emgage, and the Muslim Community Network to make this a reality for our children and generations to come.”
Heba Khalil, state director of Emgage, described the moment as one of visibility and belonging for Muslim New Yorkers.
“It represents visibility, belonging and the recognition of the Muslim community’s faith and traditions,” she said. “As Ramadan begins, we hope this moment marks the start of a lasting tradition, one where year after year we gather here to welcome this sacred month together in one of Brooklyn’s most iconic public landmarks.”
Eid Committee Founder Khaja Khateeb, said the milestone was made possible by local leadership willing to elevate the traditions of Brooklyn’s Muslim residents.
“Traditions like these begin when leaders choose to create space for visibility and belonging,” she said. “We are grateful to Brooklyn’s leadership for making this meaningful moment possible.”
