NEWARK, NJ – The Muslim flag was raised above Newark City Hall Friday afternoon as city officials, faith leaders, and community members gathered to mark New Jersey’s observance of Muslim Heritage Month — a statewide celebration honoring the history, culture, and contributions of Muslim Americans.
The event, held at 920 Mayor Kenneth A. Gibson Boulevard, was organized by the New Jersey Muslim Heritage Month Coalition in partnership with the City of Newark. Dozens attended the ceremony, which included prayers, remarks from local leaders, and reflections on the growing visibility and civic engagement of Muslim communities across the state.
Residents chanted, “Allahu Ackbar”, which translates to “God is great” as the flag was raised.
“Today is about unity and recognition,” one organizer said at the event. “We celebrate the values of faith, service, and community that define the Muslim experience here in New Jersey.”
The ceremony was attended by representatives from the Council of Imams in New Jersey, Mayor Ras J. Baraka’s administration, and other local organizations. The flag raising is part of a series of statewide observances that highlight the cultural diversity of New Jersey and its Muslim residents.
Under state law (N.J.S.A. 52:3-4), any foreign or religious flag displayed on public property must be accompanied by the U.S. flag of equal or greater size unless authorized by a municipal proclamation. Newark officials coordinated the event under the city’s proclamation recognizing Muslim Heritage Month, ensuring the U.S. flag was displayed in accordance with state guidelines.
The celebration follows legislation signed in 2022 designating January as Muslim Heritage Month in New Jersey — a measure intended to promote education and awareness about the state’s Muslim population, one of the most diverse in the nation.
Friday’s flag-raising marked the first major public event of this year’s observance.
