Mosques in New York City are facing challenges as they try to meet the needs of the increasing number of asylum seekers from Muslim-majority African countries, especially during the holy month of Ramadan. Many mosques have opened their doors during daylight hours to provide a place for new arrivals to rest and receive assistance. Muslim leaders have been appealing for donations of money, food, clothing, and other supplies to support these migrants who often arrive starving and in need of help.
Imam Omar Niass of Jamhiyatu Ansaru-Deen in the Bronx has converted his mosque into an overnight shelter for migrants at great personal expense, even though he is behind on utility bills. The latest migrant surge in New York City has seen over 185,000 asylum seekers arrive since 2022, with a significant number coming from African countries. The mosques in the city have been among the first places these migrants turn to upon arrival, seeking assistance and support.
While faith-based communities have been generous in offering aid to migrants, the current situation is not sustainable in the long run. Democratic Mayor Eric Adams announced a program to provide funding and support to mosques, churches, and synagogues that agree to provide overnight shelter to migrants. However, only six houses of worship have been approved so far to provide additional space for the more than 64,000 migrants currently housed by the city. Many faith-based institutions face challenges due to outdated buildings that do not meet current safety standards.
Imam Niass has not focused on the city program and does not collect rent from the migrants staying at his mosque. Conditions at the mosque are less than ideal, with men resting on the floor and in the backyard, using basic facilities for meals and hygiene. Senegalese migrant Malick Thiam, who has been staying at the mosque, expressed gratitude for the hospitality but also highlighted the difficulties of living there. He looks forward to finding his own place and starting a new life in the country.
In Harlem, Alphabacar Diallo, a migrant from Guinea, expresses gratitude for the support provided by Masjid Aqsa-Salam but is eager to move forward with his life. Many migrants coming for iftar are still waiting for work authorization months after arriving in the country. The mosques provide them with warmth, food, and a connection to their faith during this challenging time. Despite the challenges, these migrants are grateful for the assistance and support they receive from the mosques in New York City during Ramadan and beyond.
