NEW YORK (VINnews) — New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani is facing criticism after breaking his Ramadan fast with inmates at Rikers Island, drawing scrutiny over his focus on detainees versus injured police officers.

Mamdani said the visit to the city’s jail complex was one of his “most meaningful evenings” in office, describing it as part of his identity as a Muslim New Yorker and a broader effort to emphasize dignity and shared community.

Earlier this week, I broke fast at Rikers Island with New Yorkers in custody, Department of Correction staff, Commissioner Stanley Richards, and Councilmember Yusef Salaam.

It was a night that will stay with me for quite some time. People sharing what little they have: breaking… pic.twitter.com/6Serzy6Mt2

— Mayor Zohran Kwame Mamdani (@NYCMayor) March 20, 2026

The visit included an iftar meal with inmates and city correction officials, and marked the first time a New York City mayor has participated in Ramadan observances at Rikers, according to officials.

Critics, including law enforcement voices and political commentators, questioned his priorities, arguing he has not made similar public visits to injured police officers or crime victims. Some pointed to his earlier visit to the family of a man shot by police after attacking officers with a knife.

Supporters of the mayor said the event reflected his commitment to community engagement and his pledge to eventually close the Rikers Island jail complex.

The mayor’s office did not directly respond to criticism. The Department of Correction said the meals were donated and did not cost taxpayers.