Zohran Mamdani pledged in Arabic to New Yorkers - here's the meaning, as-salamu alaykum
As-salamu alaykum. In his energized victory speech, Zohran Mamdani spoke to all New Yorkers, vowing a city government that serves everyone. He made a point to reach out to minorities and those who are under-represented, saying he and his team will bring in a fresh generation of leadership.
He used three Arabic words to capture that promise: "Ana minkum wa ilaykum," which means, “I am of you and for you.” Arabs use that phrase to emphasize belonging and trust. Those at his election headquarters who understood it gave a small cheer, and others applauded once it was translated.
He also pledged to stand firm against anti‑Semitism and Islamophobia. Mamdani, who speaks near‑fluent Arabic, used the language to connect with Arab voters during his campaign. Near the end of the race he shared a short video saying, in a lighthearted way, that he’s “like your Syrian son‑in‑law,” referring warmly to his Syrian wife, Rama Duwaji. He added that his Arabic still needs work, but asked for people’s support.
He generally speaks with a Levantine accent, and even slips into Egyptian dialect in casual moments, showing his familiarity with the language.
All in all, his message felt personal and rooted in community - a reminder that leaders can reach people when they speak from shared values and show respect for different cultures.
https://www.thenationalnews.co