Mosque Foundation Community Appreciates Support
The Mosque Foundation community would like to express our sincere gratitude to all those who reached out to us in the wake of the New Zealand massacre in which 50 Muslim worshippers were killed and 50 more were injured. The victims ranged from as young as three-year-old Mucad Ibrahim dressed in his white thobe and matching hat attending Friday prayer, Husna Ahmad who was busy making sure everyone else was safe without tending to her own safety, to Haji Daoud al-Nabi, a central figure in the small Afghan society of New Zealand’s Christchurch. Each victim was a beloved member of their family and the Muslim community. Together, we mourn their loss and ask God to grant solace to their families.
Despite our heavy hearts, the encouragement we received has uplifted our spirits and proven that there is more goodness in this world than evil. We join people of all backgrounds and walks of life to demonstrate this truth. Today, we stand together not only to reject and condemn Islamophobia, but all forms of hatred and extremism whether it is spewed from evildoers scattered in corners of the world or from the highest office of the land; bullying, racism, bigotry, and violence have no place in any civilized society.
We are grateful for all the expressions of sympathy for the loss of our dear Brothers and Sisters who perished on that dark day in Al Noor Mosque and the Linwood Islamic Centre. Words can never fully express our appreciation for the outpouring of love and support we received from countless people who have rallied to our side; from neighbors, peers, co-workers, local politicians to many more across the nation and the globe. We would also like to thank the first responders, police officers, medical workers– who serve with honor to protect and preserve life.
Mosque Foundation President, Oussama Jammal, traveled to Christchurch for the funerals and witnessed firsthand the hospitality and kindness of New Zealanders. He says, “Events like this can only strengthen our bonds and affirm our resolve to unite against hate and bigotry.”