‘I refuse to apologise for being a Muslim’: Zohran Mamdani delivers powerful victory speech

New York City’s new mayor, Zohran Mamdani, delivered a fiery and emotional victory speech that marked not just a political triumph, but a moment of profound transformation for America’s largest city.

Alongside his pledge to end corruption, one of the most significant and widely praised moments of his address came when he openly acknowledged his faith, saying, “I refuse to apologise for being a Muslim.” The statement resonated deeply with Muslim communities across the world, many of whom lauded his courage and pride in his identity.

The 33-year-old Democratic socialist, who moved from Uganda to New York with his family at the age of seven, stood before a jubilant crowd and declared that the city had entered “a new era.” His words carried both pride and defiance as he reflected on his journey as an immigrant, a Muslim, and a community organiser who rose to lead a city long defined by its diversity.

In a 30-minute speech that blended poetry, politics, and purpose, Mamdani reminded his supporters what New York stands for. “This city,” he said, “is one built by immigrants, powered by immigrants, and now led by an immigrant.”

A historic moment for representation

Mamdani’s win is being hailed as a landmark in American politics. He is the first Muslim, South Asian, and naturalised immigrant to serve as New York City’s mayor, breaking multiple barriers in one election night. Supporters described the moment as symbolic of a city reclaiming its identity as a home for the working class and for those long marginalised by mainstream politics.

The mayor-elect did not shy away from addressing national politics either. Speaking directly to former US President Donald Trump, he said, “Donald Trump, since I know you are watching, I have four words for you: Turn the volume up.”

He went on to add, “Anyone can show a nation betrayed by him. It is the city that gave rise to him. If there is any way to rectify the divide, it is by dismantling the conditions that allowed him to accumulate power.”

A vow to clean up corruption

Taking aim at what he called “culture of corruption” in politics, Mamdani pledged to bring an end to the privilege and power that billionaires have enjoyed for too long. “We will put an end to the culture of corruption that has allowed billionaires like Trump to exploit tax breaks,” he said. “We will expand labour protections, just as Donald Trump does for himself.”

With that, he drew a line between the politics of wealth and the politics of people, declaring that “New York will remain a city built by immigrants, powered by immigrants, and as of tonight, led by an immigrant. Hear me, President Trump: to get to any of us, you will have to get through all of us.”

He urged New Yorkers to pause and take in the significance of their collective victory. “I have asked much from you over this past year,” he said. “One final request: breathe this moment. We’ve held our breath for too long. Today, New York is reborn—a city where working people can love and live again.”

A personal and political statement

Mamdani also made his speech deeply personal, acknowledging both his faith and his youth. “I am young and I am a Muslim. I refuse to apologise for being a Muslim,” he said to roaring applause.

He also took a final swipe at political establishment figures, notably former Governor Andrew Cuomo, stating, “Toppled a political dynasty. The future is in our hands. As for Andrew Cuomo, I wish him only the best in private life. Today is the final time I utter his name.”

Mamdani’s campaign was built around progressive promises—affordable housing, expanded childcare, and a new Department of Community Safety. But in his victory speech, it was his call for moral renewal and collective unity that struck the loudest chord.