NYC allows Azan on Fridays

NEW YORK: New York City authorities have granted permission for mosques to broadcast the Friday Azan between 12:30PM and 1:30PM without requiring a permit.

The guidance extends to allowing the call to prayer to be broadcast during the evenings of Ramadan as well.

The updated regulations were issued by the New York City Police Department (NYPD) and state that the Azan is not prohibited within the city, even considering sound restrictions in certain neighborhoods.

Muslim leaders welcomed this development, stating that it would enable them to practice their faith more freely and openly.

Islamic Center of New York president Imam Shamsi Ali said, “This is a great victory for the Muslim community in New York City. It allows us to practice our faith without fear of harassment or discrimination.”

The new guidelines, however, come with certain limitations. Mosques are required to broadcast the Azan at a volume that does not disturb the peace or become overly loud.

This step reflects New York City’s ongoing efforts to create a more inclusive environment for Muslims. In recent years, the city has been actively working to increase the availability of mosques, Islamic schools, and halal food options.

While this new guidance signifies significant progress, the journey is not complete. Muslim leaders continue to advocate for improved conditions for mosques to function within the city, as well as raising public awareness about the significance of the Azan and the Muslim faith.

The roots of this development trace back to a lawsuit initiated by Muslim leaders in 2018, asserting that the city’s sound laws impinged on their religious freedom. In 2022, the lawsuit was resolved through an agreement that resulted in the issuance of the new guidance, allowing mosques to broadcast the Azan without requiring a permit.