Thursday, 19 March 2020

Christchurch mosques terrorist attack anniversary

Mr TAK (Clarinda)

Last year’s Victorian Mosque Open Day coincided with the tragedy of the Christchurch terror attacks. The Islamic Council of Victoria, along with mosque communities, including the Masjid Westall located in my electorate, opened their doors to the wider community just two days after the tragedy. I was proud to join them on that day.

A year on and unfortunately this year’s Victorian Mosque Open Day was unable to proceed due to COVID-19. However, I would like to take this opportunity to again share my condolences with the families of all those affected by last year’s terror attack in Christchurch and to share my solidarity with our vibrant Islamic community in Clarinda and across Victoria.

I commend everyone who lit a candle this week not only to remember Christchurch but to send a message that we as communities and nations are stronger together. In these changing times, we are stronger together. And whether we are facing violence or terrorism or a global health emergency, we are stronger together.