HONG KONG - Exactly a week after the tragedy of shooting at two mosques in Christchurch, Azan Friday prayers (22/3/2019) were broadcast live throughout New Zealand. This was followed by a moment of silence to commemorate the tragedy of the mass shooting in the country.
CNN Indonesia reported that on that day thousands of New Zealanders gathered in Christchurch to honor 50 victims of mass shootings at two mosques in New Zealand a week ago. Non-Muslim New Zealanders also witnessed Friday prayers and took part in the silence outside the fence where the Friday prayers were held. New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern also attended the commemoration of this week of terror shootings.
Women in New Zealand wore veils to commemorate the victims of terror. Some of these non-Muslim women said they shared a voice that wearing this veil was a symbol of love, strength and unity in dark times.
"I heard that some Muslim women were afraid to come out wearing their hijab after the shooting, and I don't think anyone should be afraid to be themselves or practice their culture or beliefs in New Zealand," said Mal Turner, as reported by CNN Indonesia.
A teenage girl named Kate Mills Workman said she wore a headscarf because she was amazed by the courage of the Muslims even though it might bring them in danger. "I am amazed by the strength and commitment of their faith, and I hope to see thousands of New Zealanders wearing headscarves to show how much we value their courage," she said.
Wearing a purple head scarf, Cherie Hailwood also admitted that she wanted to experience life as a minority in her country, even if only for one day. "It's different if I have to wear it every day, but I am proud to be able to experience being a Muslim community, even if it's only for one day," he said.
While Izzy Ford wears a headscarf, he admits to teaching his son that while they are different, everyone is basically equal. "We want to show the children that even though we have different religions and appearances, we are the same. I know the days will pass and we will take off our veils and return to our lives, and for the Muslim community, they will continue, ”said Ford.
"But for now, we want to show them that we are them, we love them, and they are our family," said Ford.
In his sermon, Imam Gamal Fouda thanked and praised the government and citizens of New Zealand who have the same heart to help terror victims. "To the people of New Zealand, thank you. Thank you for your tears. Thank you for your haka. Thank you for your flowers. Thank you for your love and affection, ”said Imam Fouda. [AR]
Photo: CNN Indonesia
