Yonkers Reestablishes Islamic Advisory Council to Engage Muslim Community

The US city of Yonkers announced on 7 January the reestablishment of its local Islamic Advisory Council under the sponsorship of Mayor Mike Spano. The move aims to strengthen communication with the city’s growing Muslim community and encourage broader civic participation ahead of the upcoming month of Ramadan.

According to the city’s official publication, the council will consist of six members representing individual districts and one at-large member, all of whom must be Yonkers residents. The mayor will appoint the members and chair the council’s meetings, while applications remain open on the city’s official website until 6 February.

The Islamic Advisory Council will serve as a liaison between the city administration and Islamic organizations, offering recommendations on policies, services, and programs affecting Muslim residents. It will also address local concerns and promote cultural inclusion, public safety, education, and community relations. The council is one of ten advisory bodies established since 2012 to support inclusive local governance.