September 17th, 2024
The New Zealand Parliament marked Eid al-Fitr on Monday with a celebration that highlighted the nation's cultural diversity and commitment to inclusivity. The event, hosted by the Melissa Lee, Minister for Ethnic Communities, showcased the government’s recognition of the significant role of Muslim communities in New Zealand.
The celebration at Parliament was attended by dignitaries, community leaders, and citizens, including Mervin Singham, Chief Executive of the Ministry for Ethnic Communities, and leaders like Ibrar Sheikh from the Federation of Islamic Associations of New Zealand (FIANZ), Dr Sajjad Haider Naqvi from the Islamic Council of New Zealand (ICONZ), and Ms Aliya Danzeisen from the Islamic Women Council of New Zealand (IWCNZ), according to Ministry of Ethnic Communities.
The event commenced with a Quranic recitation by Sheikh Mohammad Amir, Mufti of New Zealand. Inspirational speeches emphasised the values of unity and inclusivity.
"The Eid is a time of generosity, as many Muslims give to charity and help those in need. It is important always to celebrate the opportunities that unite us and bring us closer to one another," Minister Lee highlighted in her address.
Cultural performances enriched the evening, featuring a poetry recitation by Khadro Mohamed and a Nasheed performance by children from the Lower Hutt Muslimah community. Minister Lee honoured these young performers, acknowledging their contribution to the evening’s festivities.
In her speech, Minister Lee also acknowledged the resilience and contributions of the Muslim community amidst global challenges, praising the support provided by the government through initiatives like the Ethnic Communities Development Fund.
As New Zealand continues to embrace its diverse cultural tapestry, the Eid celebration at Parliament serves as a powerful symbol of the country’s unwavering dedication to fostering an inclusive society that respects and celebrates its varied ethnic backgrounds.
The Muslim population in New Zealand has seen remarkable growth, increasing six-fold between 1991 and 2006, and now makes up about 1% of the country's population. With 77% of Muslims in New Zealand born overseas, the community is diverse, comprising mainly individuals of Indian descent (29%) and those from Middle Eastern countries (21%), including Arab, Iranian, and Iraqi backgrounds.