NEW YORK (Diya TV) — New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani has appointed Faiza Ali as the new commissioner of the Mayor’s Office of Immigrant Affairs, a move that has drawn both praise and criticism. Ali, a longtime community organizer and former leader at the Council on American-Islamic Relations, will now oversee policies and programs that support millions of immigrants across the nation’s largest city. The appointment places an experienced activist at the center of one of the most high-profile immigration roles in the United States.
Mayor Zohran Mamdani announced Ali’s appointment on Monday. In a statement, he said his administration will stand firmly with immigrant communities.
“At a time when immigrant New Yorkers face escalating attacks and uncertainty, this administration will not equivocate. We will defend our neighbors. We will expand access to services,” Mamdani said.
The Mayor’s Office of Immigrant Affairs works to help immigrants access city services, legal support, and community resources. The office also plays a key role in shaping New York City immigration policy. New York City is home to more than 3 million immigrants. City leaders often describe immigrants as central to the city’s economy and culture.
Ali brings more than a decade of experience in community and religious-based activism. She previously served as deputy chief of staff to former City Council Speaker Adrienne Adams. She also became the first Muslim woman to hold a first deputy chief of staff position in the City Council. Ali worked as the community affairs director at the Council on American-Islamic Relations, known as CAIR. The nonprofit civil rights group advocates for Muslim Americans and addresses issues such as discrimination and civil liberties.
CAIR has faced criticism and allegations over the years related to alleged ties to overseas groups. The organization has denied wrongdoing and says it supports peaceful civic engagement. Ali also served on the board of the Muslim Democratic Club of New York, where she worked alongside Mamdani. In 2022, Crain’s New York Business named her to its “40 Under 40” list, highlighting her leadership and public service.
Ali has long-standing ties to activist Linda Sarsour, a prominent New York-based organizer. A 2012 New York Times article covered their religious activism in the city. In 2017, both were arrested during a protest outside Trump Tower. Sarsour has faced criticism over comments related to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Critics have accused her of antisemitism. Supporters say she advocates for civil rights and social justice.
Ali’s work with CAIR and her association with Sarsour have sparked debate among some political observers. Supporters say her background shows deep engagement with immigrant and Muslim communities. Critics question whether her past affiliations could become a distraction in her new role.
Ali has often spoken about her personal background. She is the daughter of Pakistani immigrants and grew up in Brooklyn. She has said she experienced Islamophobic harassment after the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks. That experience inspired her to pursue activism.
“I am the proud daughter of immigrant parents from Pakistan who came to New York City with courage, an unshakable belief in possibility, and the determination to build a future here,” Ali said after her appointment.
“This city gave us opportunity, stability, and the chance to put down roots,” she added. “New York City is not just home to immigrants, it is powered by them.”
Her resume also includes work with Bend the Arc, a progressive Jewish organization focused on social justice and immigrant rights.
Ali steps into the role at a time of intense debate over immigration in New York City and nationwide. The city continues to manage an influx of asylum seekers and migrants. Leaders face pressure to expand housing, legal services, and job access. The commissioner of immigrant affairs must coordinate with city agencies, nonprofit groups, and federal officials. The position carries both policy and political weight. Mamdani said his administration will prioritize protecting immigrant communities and expanding services. Ali now takes on the task of turning those promises into action.
