Prominent leaders from New York City’s Muslim and African communities announced their endorsement of former Governor Andrew Cuomo for mayor, highlighting his long history of supporting immigrant and faith-based communities. The endorsement event, held in Harlem, featured remarks from religious and community figures who commended Cuomo’s leadership and policies benefiting Muslim and African New Yorkers. The press conference was moderated by Mona Davids, education and school safety advocate and publisher of LittleAfrica News and New York Voice News.
LittleAfrica News has also formally endorsed former Governor Andrew Cuomo for mayor, highlighting his proven record of supporting immigrant and faith-based communities. The editorial board noted that Cuomo “has consistently demonstrated the ability to turn ideas into actions,” citing his work to expand protections for immigrants and strengthen measures for Muslim, African, and South Asian New Yorkers.
Imam Souleimane Konate of the Masjid al-Aqsa in Harlem expressed strong support for Cuomo’s candidacy. “I am proud to endorse Governor Andrew Cuomo for Mayor. He has always listened to the concerns of Muslim communities and taken concrete steps to protect and support us,” he said, citing Cuomo’s advocacy for the mosque near the World Trade Center, his stand against the 2017 Muslim travel ban, and his establishment of a hotline for victims of Islamophobic hate crimes.
Sheikh Ibrahim Niass of the Ansarudeen Islamic Center in the Bronx emphasized Cuomo’s record of inclusion and opportunity. “We look forward to working with Governor Cuomo to build a safer, more inclusive, and opportunity-rich New York City,” he said, highlighting Cuomo’s support for immigrant businesses, charter schools, and the DREAM Act.
Imam Qazi Qayyoom of the Muhammadi Community & Interfaith Center in Queens highlighted Cuomo’s legislative accomplishments, including the Religious Garb Law and the Liberty Defense Project, which expanded protections for Muslims and immigrants. He emphasized that Cuomo’s leadership “reflects genuine respect for our faith and our communities” and pointed to his “meaningful action to protect Muslims and immigrants.”
Leaders from the African community also voiced their support. Theresa Obioma said Cuomo has “consistently stood with our community,” citing his support for charter schools, gifted and talented programs, specialized high schools, and public safety initiatives. Halimatou Konte emphasized Cuomo’s focus on opportunity, noting that he “cares about the well-being of all communities.” Senegalese businessman and community leader El Hadji Ndao added that Cuomo has long “been there for our African community,” pointing to his efforts to strengthen neighborhoods and families.
Andrew Cuomo acknowledged the city’s diversity and expressed his gratitude to the Muslim and African communities for their support. He emphasized, “Together, we’ll keep building a New York that stands up to hate, lifts up working families, and gives every New Yorker the opportunity to thrive.”
