Central Jersey Kicks Off Muslim Heritage Month with Vibrant Festival
January 11, 2025 – Central Jersey celebrated the second annual Muslim Heritage Month (MHM) with a dynamic festival on January 11, 2025, at the NJ Expo Center in Edison, NJ. The event, which marked the start of a month-long celebration across New Jersey, embraced the theme “Unity in Diversity” and highlighted the diverse Muslim communities that contribute to the state’s rich cultural and social fabric.
The festival, co-sponsored by New Jersey Muslim Voice for Progress and Jersey Halal Spots and organized in collaboration with the Muslim Heritage Month Coalition attracted a wide array of attendees, featuring American Islamic Heritage Museum, diverse Muslim cultural displays, largest indoor halal food festival, a vibrant marketplace and voter registration drive. Local artists, entrepreneurs, and community leaders showcased their work, providing attendees with a deeper understanding of the Muslim experience in New Jersey.
“This festival is a testament to the power of cultural unity,” said Zainab Syed, President of American Muslims for Democracy and Coalition Spokesperson. “It’s inspiring to see the diverse communities of New Jersey come together to celebrate Muslim heritage, and we look forward to more events that foster understanding and inclusivity.”
The event was also marked by a proclamation presented by Krishna Martes, Director of Labor Relations and Stakeholder Engagement and aide to Governor Phil Murphy. In April of 2023, Governor Murphy officially designated January as Muslim Heritage Month, emphasizing the contributions of Muslim Americans to New Jersey’s social, cultural, and economic landscape
“We are honored to support the celebration of Muslim Heritage Month and the recognition of the countless ways in which Muslim Americans have enriched our state,” said Ayaz Aslam, Co-sponsor of the event and President of New Jersey Muslim Voice for Progress. “This year’s theme, ‘Unity in Diversity,’ truly captures the essence of what it means to come together as a community, celebrating our shared humanity.”
“We invite everyone to join us in celebrating the diversity that strengthens our shared future,” added Adam Kandil, Board Member of the Islamic Center of Morris County. “Muslim Heritage Month is a time for all New Jerseyans to learn about and appreciate the rich history and diversity of the Muslim community and its contributions to our state.”
Jimmy Small, President of the Muslim League of Voters, emphasized the importance of recognizing the Muslim community’s role in New Jersey’s evolving identity. “As New Jersey continues to grow as a diverse state, it is vital to recognize the Muslim community’s contributions to shaping our collective identity,” he said.
Adding to the event’s spirit of unity, Reverend and Councilwoman-at-Large, Louise Scott-Roundtree shared a poignant message: “We should wish for others what we wish for ourselves. Our common humanity binds us together, and it is through understanding and mutual respect that we will continue to build a stronger, more compassionate community.”
Governor Murphy’s proclamation celebrated the ongoing contributions of the Muslim community to the state. He said: “New Jersey greatly benefits from the patriotism, philanthropy, advocacy, civic engagement, business, and culture of Muslim Americans and Muslim American organizations in our state. I am proud to designate January of each year as Muslim Heritage Month as it will shine a light on the rich histories, cultures, and shared principles of Muslim Americans. New Jersey takes great pride in its diversity, and we will continue to recognize and celebrate the positive impact Muslims have made, and continue to make, to the advancement of this state.”
“From first-generation immigrants to those whose ancestors have called this land home for generations, Muslim Americans embody the strength that comes from community, resilience, and solidarity. I hope that this second observance of Muslim Heritage Month in New Jersey serves as a reminder that diversity is our strength, unity is our goal, and together we can build a future where every voice is valued and every community uplifted.” said Congresswoman Bonnie Watson Coleman in her recorded video message to the community.
Mayor Ras Baraka, and other local, county and state officials were also in attendance. The MHM celebrations will continue across New Jersey with the South Jersey Regional Festival on January 25, 2025, at Eden Garden in Pennsauken, NJ. A series of public events, educational initiatives, and community gatherings will provide opportunities for further dialogue and unity throughout the month.
About the New Jersey Muslim Heritage Month Coalition
The New Jersey Muslim Heritage Month Coalition organizes statewide events to celebrate the cultural, historical, and social contributions of Muslims in New Jersey. Through art, education, and community engagement, these festivals foster inclusivity and promote understanding with panel discussions, workshops, cultural exhibits, and interfaith dialogues.
For more information, resources or to get involved, visit www.mhmcoalition.org.
(Visited 29 times, 29 visits today)
