On Tuesday, Shahana Hanif, a former City Council employee, made history by becoming the first Muslim woman elected to the Council in Brooklyn's Park Slope, Kensington, and central Brooklyn district. She was joined by Shekar Krishnan, another South Asian candidate who won a seat in Queens. Despite New York City having a significant Muslim population, Hanif's victory marked a milestone for representation in the Council. Hanif expressed her gratitude and pride in being the first Muslim woman and woman of any faith to represent District 39. She mentioned volunteers and support from the community and progressive organizations, such as the Working Families Party. She stated that they are working towards creating a city that is anti-racist and feminist, one that protects the most vulnerable and provides equitable education, invests in local climate solutions, ensures immigrant neighbors feel at home and safe. She emphasized the importance of continuing this work even after the election. Next year, the City Council will have its first openly gay Black women serving as members: Kristin Richardson Jordan in Harlem and Crystal Hudson in Brooklyn. Other LGBTQ candidates, including Tiffany Cabán in Queens, also secured victories. Chi Ossé and Erik Bottcher ran unopposed in Brooklyn and Manhattan, respectively. Lynn Schulman was predicted to secure a seat in Queens. These candidates are part of a trend towards increased diversity in New York City Council, which is projected to be almost as diverse as the city itself next year. Over 25 women are likely to hold a majority of seats in the Council, a historic first.