NYPD Community Affairs Bureau Issues Memo Allowing Call to Prayer for Muslims

In a recent memorandum (CAB#2023-549) dated August 24, 2023, Deputy Commissioner Mark T. Stewart of the Community Affairs Bureau (CAB) has directed all Community Affairs Personnel to facilitate the practice of the call to prayer (Adhan) for the Muslim community. The memo highlights the significance of religious freedom and emphasizes the importance of accommodating the Adhan, a fundamental ritual in Islam that reminds Muslims to engage in mandatory prayers and detach from worldly matters.
The Adhan, a 2-5 minute call to prayer, is performed five times a day by Muslims. It is commonly delivered through a speaker/PA system and follows a specific timing schedule that corresponds with the sun’s movement:

Fajr (Dawn) prayer at sunrise

Dhuhr (Noon) prayer around 1300 hours

Asr (Afternoon) prayer in the late afternoon before 1800 hours

Maghrib (Evening) prayer at sunset

Isha (Night) prayer in the late evening (2000-2100)

Community Affairs personnel are instructed to support the Muslim community by visiting and informing mosques (Masjids) about their right to use sound devices for the call to prayer. The volume level of these devices should be set at a reasonable standard to ensure harmonious coexistence with the community.

Additionally, Deputy Commissioner Stewart encourages Muslim leaders to engage with their neighbors, fostering understanding and a positive relationship. The Community Affairs Bureau is committed to assisting in establishing such rapport.

The memorandum clarifies that houses of worship, including mosques, are not required to obtain written permits for using sound devices. However, they must adhere to guidelines outlined in Section 10-108 of the Administrative Code and Administrative Guide Procedure 321-13. These guidelines stipulate the appropriate use of sound devices and the attachment of sound reproduction equipment to the place of worship. Moreover, the decibel level should comply with regulations set by the Department of Environmental Protection. The sound device must not be operated after sunset and can only be used after 0900 hours.

The memo concludes by urging all relevant parties to be informed and compliant with these guidelines, promoting religious freedom and respectful cohabitation within the community.

Raja Azad Gul thanked Deputy Commissioner Stewart and said that while Muslim community appreciates it.