On March 15, 2019, a devastating act of violence shook the world when an Australian-born white supremacist attacked two mosques in Christchurch, New Zealand. As worshippers gathered for Friday prayers, extending a greeting of peace with the word “Salam,” they were met with gunfire in a massacre that claimed the lives of 51 innocent people, including children and an equal number injured, ranging from 3 to 77 years old.
As we commemorate the anniversary of this tragic event, we are reminded of the consequences of unchecked Islamophobia, racism, and intolerance. The Christchurch attack highlights the ongoing risks of far-right extremism and hate towards the Muslim communities in Australia, New Zealand, and worldwide. It reinforces the necessity for all levels of government, law enforcement and policy makers to actively challenge and prevent such ideologies of hate.
The Australian Muslim community is currently experiencing an unprecedented surge in Islamophobic and anti-Muslim hate incidents that not only threaten the safety of Australian Muslims but also undermine the principles of diversity, inclusion and social cohesion. Data collected from grassroots community reporting bodies, including ANIC’s Action Against Islamophobia, demonstrates a disturbing and unacceptable rise in online hate, threats of violence against Muslims, hate letters sent to mosques and Islamic centres, as well as verbal and physical abuse targeting visibly Muslim women.
In 2022, the United Nations General Assembly designated March 15 as the International Day to Combat Islamophobia. Despite its significance, this date has not yet been officially recognised in Australia. National recognition is essential, serving both as a tribute to the victims of the Christchurch massacre and as a commitment to actively fight against the increasing prevalence of anti-Muslim hate in Australia.
We urge all members of the public—Muslims and non-Muslims alike—as well as political leaders to come together in commemorating March 15 this year, which falls on Saturday, and to stand united against Islamophobia and hatred towards Muslims.
ANIC extends its condolences and support to those impacted by the Christchurch tragedy and to all victims of Islamophobia. We express our profound appreciation to the various individuals and organisations that continue to remember this event and offer their support.
Together, we must remain united in the face of hatred and work to ensure that crimes motivated by hate and prejudice are met with justice and accountability.
