How to Support NZ's Muslim Communities Following the Christchurch Terror Attack

Friday, 15 March, 2019 will go down as one of New Zealand's darkest days. An event this horrific and heartbreaking is unprecedented in New Zealand. Now is the time that we must come together in solidarity and show love to Aotearoa's Muslim whanau. While there have already been vigils and generous outpourings from the community — you can still help here and here and here — there are several more ways you can pay respects to the victims and help counter racism in New Zealand. To begin, mosques in the four corners of Auckland will open their doors on Friday night for people of all faiths to gather in remembrance of the 50 lives lost in the Christchurch shootings.

AUCKLAND

JUMMAH REMEMBRANCE: VIGIL FOR LIVES TAKEN IN CHRISTCHURCH

Held on Friday, 22 March, the Jummah Remembrance vigil will honour the precious lives unjustly taken in the Christchurch terror attack. With large numbers expected, the event has been moved to Auckland Domain. Speakers are yet to be confirmed.

KIA KAHA AOTEAROA: STAND AGAINST RACISM

On Sunday, 24 March, it's predicted that Aotea Square will host the largest anti-racist protest New Zealand has seen since the 1981 Springbok Tour. Kicking off from 2pm, attendees are invited to stand up against all forms of racism and Islamophobia in Aotearoa.

WE STAND WATCH FOR THEM VIGIL

As Muslim worshippers gather for Jummah prayer one week after the Christchurch terrorist attack on Friday, 22 March, members of the Maori Anglican churches of South Auckland, and anyone who wishes to join, will hold a vigil outside the Airport Masjid mosque at 91 Westney Road, Mangere.

SID AT THE FRENCH CAFE: CHRISTCHURCH CHARITY LUNCHEON

Grafton's Sid at The French Café is hosting a special fundraising lunch on Sunday, 28 April. Proceeds from the $250 six-course tasting menu, including wine, beer and non-alcoholic beverages, will be donated directly via hospitality charity DineAid to Victim Support, to help victims and families affected by the tragic event. The lunch will also include a live and silent auction. Email [email protected] to book your spot.

WE STAND AS ONE: FAMILY BAR

Karangahape Road's Family Bar is hosting a fundraising club night on Saturday, 23 March with all proceeds going back to the Christchurch community. The event will be hosted by Miss Ribena and Miss Trinity Ice with continuous shows throughout the night, including performances by Leidy Lei, Vanessa Laroux, Margarita Blades and more. Entry by koha. Doors open at 8pm.

WELLINGTON

AMNESTY AT VIC: VIGIL FOR LIVES TAKEN IN CHRISTCHURCH

Following the huge 11,000-strong gathering at Basin Reserve over the weekend, Wellington will once again come together in solidarity on Thursday, 28 March. Kicking off from 6pm, the public vigil presented by Amnesty at Vic will be held in Civic Square.