Washington:
Mayor Eric Adams announced Tuesday that New York City will allow the azan, the Islamic call to prayer, to be broadcast every Friday and at specified times during the holy month of Ramadan.
“For too long there has been confusion about which communities are not allowed to amplify their call to prayer,” Adams told a news conference.
“Today, we are ending red-tapism and clearly saying that mosques and houses of worship are free to offer prayers on Fridays and during Ramzan without any permits,” he said.
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At the press conference attended by representatives of various mosque associations and Muslim foundations, Adams said: “You are free to practice your faith in New York City because, under the law, we are all entitled to equal treatment. Our administration is committed to this.” But very proud to have achieved this feat.”
Under the new guidance, a mosque or masjid can broadcast the azaan every Friday between 12.30 pm and 1.30 am as well as every evening before the iftar meal during the fasting month of Ramzan.
The leaders of the Muslim community expressed their gratitude to the mayor and other officials. As soon as the meeting came to an end, Azaan was read from the dais with an explanation in English.
