Unusual and highly symbolic scene in New York. The elected mayor of the American megacity invited himself, for the duration of a CAN match, to the heart of the Moroccan community, in a restaurant in the Astoria district.
A surprise appearance in the heart of Astoria
Sunday evening, Atlas Lions supporters gathered in a Moroccan restaurant in Astoria were treated to an unexpected surprise. Zohran Mamdani, mayor-elect of New York, joined guests of the establishment to follow the opening match of the Africa Cup of Nations between Morocco and Comoros.
Far from the official stands, the elected official took his place among the supporters, sharing the warm atmosphere around traditional Moroccan dishes, in an atmosphere marked by enthusiasm and conviviality.
The first Muslim mayor of New York, Zohran Mamdani spoke with members of the Moroccan and Arab community in the neighborhood, known for its strong cultural diversity. The scene, filmed and relayed on social networks, quickly sparked numerous reactions.
The owner of the restaurant praised this moment on her social accounts, evoking the “honor” of having welcomed the mayor during the Moroccan selection match.
A symbol of New York multiculturalism
This moment of proximity illustrates the place that immigrant cultures occupy in the daily life of New York. A few days before his official entry into office, scheduled for the beginning of January, Zohran Mamdani sent a strong signal in favor of cultural dialogue and living together.
The initiative was seen as a gesture of recognition towards a community firmly established in the city and attached to its traditions.
Read also
