Bangladeshi American makes history

Bangladesh-origin American Shahana Hanif has made history by becoming the first Muslim woman elected to New York City Council.

“I was born and raised in Kensington, Brooklyn.

I’m the daughter of Bangladeshi Muslim immigrants, a Lupus survivor, and an activist,” Shahana wrote in a Facebook post after the election results were called in her favour. “I’m humbled and proud to be the first Muslim woman elected to the New York City Council and the first woman to represent my district,” she wrote.

“We are building an anti-racist, feminist city. We deserve a city that guarantees equitable education, invests in climate solutions, and makes our immigrant neighbors heard and safe. I’m ready to move our city forward in service of our progressive vision every day.”