Arab American Leaders Join Zohran Mamdani’s Transition Team in New York City
A historic moment as the mayor-elect includes Palestinian, Yemeni, Egyptian, and Lebanese American figures in his new administration.
In a move that reflects the growing presence and influence of the Arab American community in U.S. political life, reports indicate that New York City Mayor-elect Zohran Mamdani is bringing several prominent Arab American leaders into his transition team and upcoming administration. Among those selected are:
Dean Fuleihan, a veteran New York City municipal official of Lebanese heritage, who is being considered as one of the leading candidates for a key administrative role.
Marwa Janini, a Palestinian American activist, has been appointed to a transition committee focused on immigration and civil society issues. She currently serves as the Executive Director of the Arab American Association of New York (AAANY), one of the most important community organizations supporting Arab residents in Brooklyn and other boroughs.
Murad Awawdeh, another prominent Palestinian American figure, joins the team as the President and CEO of the New York Immigration Coalition (NYIC). He plays a major role in advocating for immigrant rights statewide.
Debbie Almontaser, a Yemeni American educator and longtime community leader, is also joining the transition. She is the founding principal of the Khalil Gibran International Academy in Brooklyn and a well-known advocate for Arab and Muslim communities.
Rana Abdelhamid, an Egyptian American organizer recognized for her work fighting discrimination and gender-based violence, has also been included. She is the founder of “Malikah,” and is known for her 2022 campaign for Congress in New York.
These appointments signal the Mamdani administration’s commitment to elevating Arab and Muslim voices, integrating them into local decision-making, and empowering a new generation of diverse leaders to help shape the future of New York City.
