The author, a senior alumna of Bronx High School of Science, enthusiastically recounts her unexpected yet profound connection to Mayor Zohran Mamdani's inauguration. Despite their significant age difference and never having met, she finds herself on the inaugural committee, witnessing a new era unfold in New York City. The ceremony, held in freezing temperatures, is attended by prominent political figures and celebrities, highlighting the gravity and excitement surrounding Mamdani's ascension. Her presence stems not from a mere school tie, but from a deeper conviction that New York urgently needs a visionary leader committed to transformative change in critical sectors like education, healthcare, housing, and transportation. This article delves into the significance of Mamdani's election as a symbol of hope and progress for a diverse city.
In Korean culture, the terms 'seonbae' and 'hoobae' denote a hierarchical relationship based on experience, often in an educational or professional setting. The author, a 'seonbae' by virtue of being an earlier graduate from Bronx Science, sees Mayor Mamdani as her 'hoobae.' She humorously notes the generational gap, emphasizing that she's old enough to be his mother, yet this does not diminish her admiration. The inauguration stage was a gathering of influential figures, including Mamdani's mother, Academy Award-nominated filmmaker Mira Nair, and political heavyweights like Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, Bernie Sanders, and Kathy Hochul. The author, a nominal member of the Inaugural Committee, observed the event from a vantage point below the main stage, sharing the space with actors Richard Kind, Kal Penn, Susan Sarandon, and John Turturro, as well as MuslimGirl.com founder Amani al-Khatahtbeh, all braving the frigid conditions.
The bitterly cold weather, with temperatures hovering around 20 degrees Fahrenheit, made the outdoor ceremony particularly challenging. The author and her husband, despite their inadequate attire, persevered, sharing hand warmers and enduring the wait from late morning until the early afternoon program commenced. This resilience underscored their commitment to witnessing the historic moment. The author reflects on why she chose to participate actively, concluding that it was far beyond a simple alumni connection. She acknowledges the sheer improbability of her presence being solely due to a shared alma mater, given the school's vast and diverse alumni network. Instead, her motivation was rooted in a belief that New York City was ripe for bold leadership, exemplified by Mamdani's willingness to challenge the status quo and explore innovative solutions for the city's complex problems.
Having immigrated to New York City from Seoul in 1976 at the age of seven, the author was nearing her 50th anniversary as a New Yorker. This milestone added a layer of personal significance to her experience at the inauguration. She draws parallels between her own immigrant journey and the contemporary challenges faced by asylum-seekers and other newcomers. The inaugural poet, Cornelius Eady, aptly titled his poem "Proof," resonating deeply with the author's understanding of New York's enduring spirit. In a global climate where immigrants often face prejudice and essential human needs are increasingly commodified, Mamdani's election represents a powerful counter-narrative. It signals a city willing to re-evaluate its hierarchies, empower younger generations, and embrace a future built on inclusivity and progressive ideals.
The narrative culminates in a celebration of New York's willingness to embrace new paradigms. Mamdani, a 34-year-old Ugandan-born, Asian-American, Muslim immigrant, embodying a diverse background, has been entrusted with the demanding role of leading a city of 8.5 million people. His journey, marked by bold ideas and a commitment to change, serves as "proof" that the city is open to innovation, committed to its children and elders, and eager to welcome newcomers who will become integral parts of its fabric. The author, as a 'seonbae,' proudly expresses her support for Mayor Zohran Kwame Mamdani, recognizing his leadership as a beacon of hope and a testament to New York's continuous evolution and aspirational dreams.