The Federation of Islamic Associations of New Zealand (FIANZ) is pleased to present this year's annual Islam Awareness Week (IAW), to be held from Monday, 7 September to Sunday, 13 September 2015. This internationally recognised event celebrates the positive relationship between Muslims and Non- Muslims.
Throughout this week, events will be held across the country – in Mosques, Islamic Centres, Universities, and community spaces – to present a unique and intimate look at Islam and the Muslim community in New Zealand. The week offers a platform for Muslims to dispel common misconceptions in society as well as a way to celebrate their own uniqueness and contributions to the wider community.
According to the latest statistics, 45,000 Muslims reside in New Zealand, these coming from various ethnic backgrounds, with a significant proportion of them being New Zealand born, including about 4,000 who are identified as Pakeha or Maori.
The theme for this year's event is "Serving Humanity". It is the duty of every Muslim to be actively engaged in the social welfare and in meeting the needs of Muslims and Non-Muslims alike. The theme explores the different aspects of Islam relating to being a beneficial member of a society.
The event will be officially launched by Mr David Rutherford, Chief Commissioner of the Human Rights Commission on Monday, 7 September 2015 at the Wellington Islamic Centre, 7-11 Queens Drive, Kilbirnie. Government, NGO Representatives, diplomats and community leaders have been invited to attend the official launch. Harmony Awards presentation will also be made during the launch.
During this year's launch, a re-signing ceremony of a MOU between the New Zealand Police and the Federation of Islamic Associations will be held. Police Commissioner Mike Bush and Hazim Arafeh, President of the Federation will sign the MOU on behalf of their respective organisations to affirm their mutual understanding and cooperation.
Islam Awareness Week will culminate on Saturday, 12 September 2015 with 'Islam Open Day' – a family-friendly exhibition in Auckland's Aotea Square showcasing Islam, Islamic history and the Muslim community in New Zealand. A similar "Mosque Open Day" will also be observed in Wellington Islamic Centre on Saturday 12 September. The Wellington Mosque Open Day will showcase ethnic foods, fun activities for children, clothing from our different communities and a rich demonstration of cultural diversity. Similar ‘Mosque Open Days’ will be held in other parts of the country.
FIANZ invites all New Zealanders to participate in the week's events and to reach out to Muslim neighbours, local Mosques, Muslim communities, as we all work towards bridging the gaps between the communities in the diverse and rich multicultural landscape that is Aotearoa.