Islamic institutions in New York City are rallying to support the increasing number of migrants, particularly from Muslim-majority African countries, during the holy month of Ramadan. Many mosques have opened their doors to provide shelter, meals, and other essentials to asylum seekers who often arrive in the city with urgent needs.
One mosque in Harlem hosts iftar meals for hundreds of migrants every night, while an imam in the Bronx has transformed his mosque into an overnight shelter for men from Senegal. The surge in migrants, with over 185,000 asylum seekers arriving in the city since the spring of 2022, has put a strain on resources.
Faith-based communities, including mosques, have been at the forefront of providing assistance to migrants, but the demand has outpaced their capacity. Leaders have appealed for donations of money, food, and clothing to meet the growing needs of the migrant population.
Despite facing financial challenges, imams and mosque leaders continue to welcome migrants, offering them a place to rest and recover. The generosity of these institutions has been crucial for many new arrivals who often have nowhere else to turn.
While faith-based organizations play a vital role in supporting migrants, there are concerns about the sustainability of relying solely on their resources. Efforts by the city to provide funding and support to mosques, churches, and synagogues offering shelter have faced challenges, with only a limited number of facilities approved to provide additional space.
As the city grapples with the ongoing migrant crisis, there are calls for more practical regulations to enable faith-based shelters to accommodate migrants safely and effectively. Despite the challenges, mosque leaders like Imam Omar Niass in the Bronx remain committed to providing assistance to those in need, even as they navigate financial difficulties.
For migrants like Malick Thiam and Alphabacar Diallo, the mosques have become a lifeline, offering them a sense of community and support during a challenging time. As they wait for work authorization and strive to build new lives in the United States, the mosques provide them with a place of refuge and connection to their faith.
