Hijab, Politics, and Feminism in the Spotlight | New York City News

Governor Kathy Hochul’s decision to wear a hijab during a visit to an Islamic cultural center has ignited a fiery political debate, with opponent Bruce Blakeman calling it a “costume” and linking it to 9/11 anniversary timing — a move critics say is insensitive. Hochul defends it as respectful religious protocol, citing past instances including visits to mosques after attacks and at fallen officer funerals. Community leaders, including Afaf Nasher of CAIR-NY, affirm the gesture as reverence and condemn Blakeman’s remarks as anti-feminist and hurtful. Blakeman later claimed his comments weren’t aimed at Muslims but doubled down by questioning Hochul’s feminism — a charge she dismisses as absurd, noting men often tell women what feminism means. The controversy even drew in Donald Trump, who accused Hochul of seeking the “Arab Vote,” turning a simple act of modesty into a flashpoint over religion, politics, and gender identity. Listen in comfort:Get a discount on a Soli Pillow: http://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN:[email protected] This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.Report issues to [email protected]. View sources & latest updates:https://sources.thednn.ai/56e70b305a1d3e3d