New York City made history again with the election of its first Muslim mayor, Mahmudani, who was sworn in shortly after New Year’s Day. Following this milestone, the city council elected its first Jewish speaker. On January 7th, Manhattan’s Upper East Side councilwoman, Julie Menin, with extensive government and council experience, was unanimously elected by all 51 council members as the new council speaker. This combination of government and council leadership is deemed “historic”.
Menin has served three terms as a councilwoman and held positions such as agency head, chief of staff, and regulatory lawyer within the city government, focusing on strengthening consumer and labor rights protection.
Many council members, during the nomination and voting process, highlighted Menin’s extensive management experience and outstanding leadership skills. They noted her significant impact in childcare, healthcare, education, and women’s rights advocacy. The unanimous 51 votes in her favor reflected her identity as a “moderate Democrat” and her role as a bridge between Muslim and Jewish communities, progressives, and Republicans.
Councilwoman Linda Lee of Queens, of Korean descent, nominated Menin, emphasizing their collaboration on legislation benefiting 9/11 first responders and survivors.
Throughout her career, Menin has been dedicated to upholding labor rights and advocating for hardworking individuals who contribute to building the city, as stated by Councilwoman Lee. Lee also praised Menin’s crucial role in promoting universal childcare, making New York City one of the first major U.S. cities to achieve this.
Councilwoman Lin Yeung, of Chinese descent from Brooklyn, shared how Menin actively engaged with the community, attending events and advocating for public safety and quality education.
Yeung used the symbolism of next year’s Chinese zodiac sign, the “Fire Horse”, to describe Menin’s qualities of vitality, freedom, strength, and progress: a moment for bold actions and positive change.
Noteworthy is the confidence and expectations expressed by minority group representatives, including Muslim Councilwoman Shahana Hanif and Republican Councilwoman Vickie Paladino. Hanif emphasized the opportunities for unity, love, and caring within the council.
Menin, in her acceptance speech, expressed gratitude and humility, recognizing the city’s prosperity was built not on simple models but on embracing seemingly opposing yet complementary truths.
During a press conference post-election, Menin highlighted shared goals with the mayor, such as enhancing city life’s affordability through initiatives like affordable housing construction and accessible childcare and healthcare.
As a Jewish leader, Menin is determined to combat anti-Semitism, while also recalling her efforts post-9/11 to address “Islamophobia” in promoting religious freedom.
Menin stressed the sacred right to protest granted by the First Amendment, stating that regardless of one’s religion, people have the right to enter their places of worship without fear or harassment. She mentioned ongoing legislation to establish security perimeters around schools and religious sites to ensure their protection.
Menin sees the unanimous support from the 51 council members as indicative of the council’s future direction.
“We are in an era where New York City’s first Muslim mayor and first Jewish council speaker hold office in the same location,” she said. “We must ensure New York continues to be a beacon of hope, tolerance, and inclusivity.”