An evening of music at the Thikana Community Hub in Queens provided a revealing glimpse into the changing dynamics of New York City politics. Bangladeshi singer and composer Jon Kabir performed at a fundraising event for mayoral candidate Zohran Mamdani, underscoring how cultural expression is increasingly being used as a vehicle for political mobilisation.
Rather than relying solely on speeches or formal appeals, the event placed music at its emotional core. Kabir, joined by Ruhin Hossain, performed “High Hopes,” a song whose themes of ambition and resilience aligned neatly with the campaign’s narrative. The audience, largely composed of members of the Bangladeshi American community, joined in enthusiastically, creating a collective atmosphere rarely seen at traditional political fundraisers.
Zohran Mamdani remained present throughout the performance, engaging directly with attendees. His visible enjoyment of the moment, marked by applause and laughter, reinforced his image as a candidate closely connected to his supporters. The projected slogan “Zohran, a new era, New York” behind the performers further tied the cultural moment to the campaign’s promise of change.
For Jon Kabir, the evening carried both personal and professional significance. Recently appointed Head of Programmes, Events and Music at Thikana, he was responsible for shaping the musical direction of the fundraiser. Kabir described his relationship with Mamdani as one built on mutual respect and shared cultural roots, highlighting how informal networks within immigrant communities often play a decisive role in political engagement.
The fundraiser was organised by Thikana as part of Mamdani’s transition initiative. Thikana Group Chairman M M Shaheen formally inaugurated the programme, while Group CEO Mushrath Shaheen led its execution. The involvement of media and business leaders, including Thikana TV CEO Khaled Muhiuddin and Rivertel CEO Ruhin Hossain, reflected the breadth of institutional support behind the event.
Organisers reported attendance of more than 200 guests and funds raised exceeding $150,000. They emphasised that the fundraiser was unique in being led by a Bangladeshi Muslim organisation in Queens, marking a significant milestone for community-led political participation.
The choice of venue reinforced this message. The Thikana Community Hub, a purpose-built space for learning and civic engagement, symbolises an effort to institutionalise community participation rather than treating it as episodic. By hosting political events alongside cultural and educational activities, Thikana aims to normalise civic involvement within everyday community life.
Mamdani’s candidacy has gained attention for its emphasis on grassroots organising and progressive policy priorities. At 34, he represents a generational shift within Democratic politics, appealing particularly to younger voters concerned about housing costs, inequality and public services. His campaign has become a focal point for broader debates about the future direction of the party in New York.
The Queens fundraiser demonstrated how cultural initiatives can amplify political messages, particularly within communities that have historically felt marginalised from mainstream politics. By blending music, identity and civic purpose, the event offered a model for campaigning that reflects the lived experiences of a diverse electorate.
As New York’s political landscape continues to evolve, the success of events like this suggests that culture may play an increasingly central role in shaping political outcomes, bridging the gap between policy ambition and community participation.