Christchurch mosques terrorist attack anniversary
Ms SULEYMAN (St Albans) (09:53): On Sunday, 15 March, we marked the first anniversary of the Christchurch terror attack, which occurred at Al Noor Mosque and Linwood Islamic Centre in Christchurch. On that day the events unfolded, and the attack shocked and horrified us all. It did not discriminate between men, women and children. Forever in our memory will be the little shoes that lay outside the door of that mosque. I continue to be extremely touched by the solidarity not only of Victorians but globally offering love and offering compassion to the Muslim community. People all over the world visit Al Noor mosque and continue to pay their respects today. The victims are not forgotten, but our work continues. There needs to be much more work done when it comes to, as we have seen in recent times, an alarming rate of increase in attacks and Islamophobia and in particular attacks towards the Muslim community. We need to unite against such hate—any form of hate.
I take this opportunity to pray for and also offer my condolences to the families. Their loved ones will never be forgotten. We must continue to remember the innocent lives lost. It was a terror attack that shocked us all not only in Victoria but globally. An injustice committed by one is an injustice on all. Peace be upon you.