In the shadow of grief and sorrow, Kiwis of all faiths have come together in solidarity of our brave brothers and sisters who lost their lives to the Christchurch tragedy at Masjid Al-Noor and Linwood Islamic Centre last Friday. It was last reported that New Zealand's Muslim community has lost 50 of their family, friends and loved ones.
Credit: Christchurch City Council on Facebook
Families, friends and fellow Kiwis across New Zealand paid tribute to the terror victims of one of the country's darkest day in history. In the past week, we have witnessed many shows of solidarity that moved our hearts. Floral bouquets flourished the steps of local mosques, traditional Haka performed, and places of worship offered their space for safety.
On 22 March 2019 (Friday), we will see Kiwis from all faiths band together and stronger by wearing headscarves in solidarity of the Christchurch tragedy. A movement led by Mount Eden's general practitioner, Dr Thaya Ashman, 'Headscarf for Harmony' encourages everyone from walks of life to wear any coloured headscarf or head covering at work and school. Men can also participate by wearing a scarf around their shoulder.
"It's a simple invitation to the whole of New Zealand to show our support, but also to recognise our grief as New Zealanders," Ashman said in an interview with The AM Show.
Credit: Christchurch City Council on Facebook
Another movement, 'Scarves in Solidarity' will also take place to show their support for the Muslim community. Organised by Anna Thomas, she said Islamic Women's Council member Nasreen Hanif agreed to the idea. "I just thought why don't we all wear a scarf on Friday, a week on from this tragedy and walk alongside our Muslim sisters as a mark of respect," Thomas shared in an interview with Magic Talk Auckland radio show.
With the official call to prayer event held this Friday (22 March 2019), the Prime Minister of New Zealand Jacinda Ardern has announced that the Azaan will also be broadcast nationally through TVNZ (Television New Zealand) and RNZ (Radio New Zealand), followed by a two minute of silence and a memorial service.
P.S. Read more about how New Zealand has banded together to show love and support for the Muslim community.