Tonight I went to a Solidarity Vigil in Melbourne’s CBD attended by thousands of people. Hailing from every conceivable background, the crowd resembled a tableau of the very essence of Melbourne. The vigil opened with a beautiful Haka performed by our Kiwi youth. Then, interfaith leaders from the Muslim, Christian, Jewish, Sikh, Hindu, Buddhist and Baha’i faiths offered prayers and words of unity. There was a powerful call to abolish racism in government from the Greens party leader, and consoling words from the Governor, Race Discrimination Commissioner and Indigenous Leader, Jackie Huggins OAM. As a show of communal support, this gathering was flawless. As a cathartic exercise, invaluable. 

The triumph of good over evil seems within reach in such moments. InshaAllah may these voices and actions be amplified across the nation and borders. There is much work to be done …#StayStrongChristchurch

#ilovemelbourne #endracism #endislamophobia #endxenophobia