Muslim leaders say they will work to improve understanding of their religion among non-Muslim New Zealanders in the hope of reducing tensions following the recent terrorist attacks in New York and Washington DC.
Muslim community leaders yesterday met Race Relations Conciliator Gregory Fortuin and representatives from the Office of
Ethnic Affairs to discuss the harassment of Muslims that has occurred since the September 11 attacks.
In a statement afterward, the leaders said Muslim school children had been attacked because of their clothing and singled out to justify their religious and cultural beliefs.
They also said there had been an increase in physical abuse of young girls and women and some Muslims had been harassed on the telephone.
The Muslim leaders agreed to work with the Office of Race Relations and Ethnic Affairs to develop resource material explaining Islam, to create a list of volunteers available to speak to schools and community groups, to publicise common beliefs shared by different religions, and to work with the police to promote safer communities.
The leaders said that they wanted to express gratitude for the kindness shown by some people through cards and flowers left at Ponsonby mosque. They were touched by invitations to share food and exchange views.
They also reiterated their sorrow for the victims of the terrorist attacks in the United States.
