Fauzia Janjua at her office in Mount Laurel, New Jersey. Courtesy X photo

In a positive development, Pakistani-American woman, Fauzia Janjua, has made history by becoming the first Muslim and South Asian woman to serve as the mayor of Mount Laurel in New Jersey, Dawn and The News reported on Saturday.

At her swearing-in ceremony at the Township Hall last week, Janjua, accompanied by her family, proudly held a copy of the Holy Quran, emphasising the cultural diversity of her heritage.

Fauzia’s father Idris belongs to Chakwal while her mother is from Lahore, Punjab province. Her father migrated to the US, where she was born, in the 1970s. She opted for community service and is imparting education to poor children and prisoners. Her dedication to improving lives led her to establish an NGO.

With her election, the position of mayor has gone to Democrats for the first time in 36 years. Before her election, the mayor slot was always held by a Republican representative.

The New Jersey media, while commenting on her success, pointed out that her story serves as an inspiration, highlighting the power of an individual to make a positive impact on the communities.

Janjua’s historic role opens doors for further representation and highlights the importance of embracing and celebrating the diverse backgrounds that con-tribute to the vibrant fabric of Mount Laurel.

Assemblywoman Carol Murphy, a New Jersey state representative, administered the oath of office to Janjua, who expressed deep pride in her Pakistani roots.

“I am honoured to be the first Pakistani and Muslim woman mayor in the history of Mount Laurel. It’s a matter of pride for myself and the entire Pakistani community,” she told reporters after the ceremony.

 “My commitment to community service has been a lifelong passion, focusing on teaching prisoners and underprivileged children,” she said.

Janjua is first South Asian woman to have been selected mayor of a US township; has served community, focusing on teaching prisoners, underprivileged children

“Reflecting on my political journey, it all began at a state governor’s party where a woman recognised my potential for leadership,” she added. “With that encouragement, I embarked on this path, ultimately achieving the historic position of mayor.”

Beyond her political responsibilities, Janjua has actively worked to showcase positive aspects of Muslim culture to the world. Leveraging her role as Deputy Mayor, she has promoted understanding and appreciation, contributing to the diverse tapestry of Mount Laurel’s community.

Her remarks at the swearing-in ceremony emphasised the need to celebrate all cultural events together, showcasing the rich heritage of Mount Laurel’s community.

New Jersey State Representative, Carol Murphy, wrote on X: “It is such a great honour to administer the oaths of office tonight in Mount Laurel. It was extremely special to celebrate my dear friends — Mayor Fozia Janjua (1st Muslim & South Asian Mayor in township history) & Deputy Mayor Nik Moustakas on this historic occasion.”