On Friday, September 12th, Mayor Eric Adams addressed congregants at the Islamic Cultural Center of the Bronx, raising concerns about mayoral candidate Zohran Mamdani’s support for decriminalizing prostitution. Adams emphasized that Mamdani’s position conflicts with Islamic teachings on family and morality, recalling his own efforts to defend Muslim communities after 9/11.
Critics note Mamdani’s limited attendance at mosques and argue that his community outreach intensified after launching his campaign. While Mamdani says decriminalization would improve public safety by targeting traffickers rather than sex workers, opponents warn it could increase crime in areas like Queens and Brooklyn. The debate underscores tensions among New York’s Muslim voters over reconciling faith with policy positions.