Rallies for diversity, not division

Following international protests against US President Donald Trump’s divisive policies and rhetoric, Manawatu rallies have been organised to support refugees and Muslims.

The ‘‘you’re welcome rally’’ is planned for Sunday in The Square in Palmerston North, from 1 to 2pm, as a positive and peaceful event. In Whanganui, about 70 people joined a ‘‘we’re with you rally’’ on Waitangi Day.

Organiser of the Palmerston North event, Lorna Johnson, said she was prompted by refugee and Muslim friends’ reactions to Trump’s immigration ban that briefly stopped people from seven predominantly Muslim nations entering the US.

‘‘I could see they were affected on a personal level even if they were not affected [directly]. Some still felt they’d been targeted as a group, and a lot were feeling vulnerable and worried about how things might develop worldwide.

‘‘I wanted to do something to show they do have support and friendship and acceptance in the community here.’’

Human rights were important to Kiwis.

‘‘Sometimes you have to stand up and say that’s not OK.

‘‘It does show people further afield that there are countries that don’t appreciate discrimination against people on the basis of their religion or where they’re from.’’

Zulfiqar Butt, president of the Manawatu Muslim Association, would speak at Sunday’s rally. He said the rallies had made an impact in his community. Association members attended the Whanganui event and would be at the Palmerston North event too.

‘‘People are really appreciative. Generally, the community feel safe, but they are still worried about the international scenario – that affects some people here.’’