Observant Muslim, Orthodox Jew To Lead New Jersey Township
A practicing Muslim and an Orthodox Jew have been chosen to run a New Jersey township.
Mohammed Hameeduddin was picked last week by the Teaneck Township Council to serve as mayor and Adam Gussen was chosen as deputy mayor for two-year terms.
Hameeduddin, Teaneck’s first Muslim mayor, is one of only a handful of Muslims to lead a U.S. municipality.
The leaders attended middle school together in Teaneck, which has a large Orthodox Jewish population, and both attended Rutgers University, according to ABC News.
“Nowhere else is this possible,” Hameeduddin told ABC. “The opportunity to bring two communities together and break down stereotypes that have belittled our nation is both monumental and humbling.”
I’m personally matching all gifts to the Forward, up to $36,000. Can I match your gift now?
Hello, fellow Forward reader! I’m Joel Brown, a Forward reader and supporter for more than 15 years, and currently the chair of the board of directors.
I’m an avid Forward reader because it ticks so many of my essential boxes: excellent journalism, Jewish focus and diverse viewpoints. In today’s political climate, what I most appreciate is the Forward’s independence — made possible by the generosity of its membership.
The Forward is committed to bringing you unbiased, nuanced Jewish news. From my position as board chair, I see an exciting future as we expand our position as the definitive independent voice of contemporary American Judaism.
— Joel Brown, Forward board chair
Support our mission to tell the Jewish story fully and fairly.
