Mayor Eric Adams announced new guidelines allowing mosques to broadcast the Islamic call to prayer, also known as the adhan, on Fridays and during every sunset of the Ramadan month without requiring a special permit.
Adams emphasized the essence of the new regulations by stating, “For too long, there has been a feeling that our communities were not allowed to amplify their calls to prayer. Today, we are cutting red tape and saying clearly that mosques and houses of worship are free to amplify their call to prayer.”
He continued, “We want our brothers and sisters of Muslim faith to know that they are free to live their faith in New York City because, under the law, we will all be treated equally. Our administration is proud to finally get this done.”
During a City Hall news conference alongside Muslim leaders, Mayor Adams expressed his commitment to ensuring that Muslim New Yorkers would not be marginalized or overlooked during his tenure as the Mayor.
The adhan, a declaration of faith that calls Muslims to prayer, is a prevalent sound in majority-Muslim countries but is less frequently heard in the United States.
Minneapolis had similarly allowed mosques to broadcast the adhan last year publicly.
The NYPD’s community affairs bureau is set to collaborate with the mosques, ensuring that the devices used for the broadcasts adhere to suitable decibel levels. Mosques or masjids will now be able to play the adhan on Fridays between 12:30 pm – 1:30 pm without needing a noise permit, which was previously required.
NYPD Commissioner Edward Caban, who was present at the press conference, said, “This important work, being led by our NYPD Community Affairs Bureau, is a fundamental service to the ideas of religious freedom, understanding, and sustained peace and prosperity for all.” He continued, “Our hardworking police officers know that our diversity — our rich blend of varying backgrounds and experiences — is what often makes us stronger.
This initiative is seen as a significant step in recognizing and valuing the city’s diverse cultural and religious landscape.
Somaia Ferozi, principal of the Ideal Islamic School in Queens, spoke about the impact of this decision, saying, “Our children are reminded of who they are when they hear the adhan. Having that echo in a New York City neighborhood will make them feel part of a community that acknowledges them.”
Mayor Adams, a known advocate for fostering close ties with leaders from various religious traditions, has been vocal about the role of faith in public life.
