The Australian National Imams Council (ANIC) is deeply concerned by recent reports alleging that a Melbourne-based preacher called on followers during a sermon to “take up arms” against Jews and Christians.
ANIC strongly and unequivocally condemns any call by any religious or non-religious preacher, leader or individual to take up arms against civilians, religious communities or the Australian people.
At this stage, ANIC is working to independently verify the reports and locate the full sermon or lecture referred to. ANIC has not yet been able to locate the original recording and therefore will not make findings about the individual or the precise context of the reported remarks until the material can be properly reviewed.
However, ANIC’s position on calls to violence is clear and has always been clear.
As Australia’s peak national body representing more than 400 Imams, Muslim religious leaders and preachers across all states and territories, ANIC categorically rejects incitement to violence, hatred or harm against any person or community.
The safety, security and wellbeing of Australia and the Australian people are fundamental responsibilities that Australian Muslims, Imams and religious leaders must uphold. Islamic teachings require Muslims to honour the sanctity of human life, fulfil their responsibilities to society and contribute positively to the communities and country in which they live.
This commitment is expressly reflected in the ANIC Imams Code of Honour, endorsed by all Australian Imams and religious leaders, which requires signatories to:
“Contribute positively to Australian society and to the advancement, wellbeing and safety of Australia and the Australian people.”
This position was also reaffirmed at the most recent Alliance of Australian Muslims (AAM) National Muslim Community Leaders Summit, held last August and attended by representatives of more than 250 Muslim organisations, including ANIC representatives, from across Australia. Muslim community leaders collectively reaffirmed that:
“Australian Muslims are an integral part of Australian society and are committed to contributing positively to Australia’s peace, social harmony, security, prosperity and future.”
ANIC calls on all religious leaders and preachers, regardless of their faith or background, to exercise responsibility in their public statements and to reject rhetoric that promotes violence, hatred or hostility against any Australian community.
At the same time, the alleged conduct of any individual must not be used to collectively condemn or blame an entire faith or community.
ANIC and AAM reject attempts to hold Islam, Australian Muslims, Muslim leaders or Muslim institutions collectively responsible for the unlawful statements or actions of individuals, including those who break Australian law.
Where any person has genuinely advocated violence or breached Australian law, the matter should be investigated appropriately by the relevant authorities and addressed according to the law.
Australian Muslims stand with their fellow Australians in protecting the safety of our communities, preserving social harmony and ensuring that Australia remains a country where people of all faiths and backgrounds can live safely, peacefully and with dignity.
