It’s a time for unity, love and support
After the unspeakable terrorist attack in Christchurch, I have decided not to write a political column. It is not the right time. This is a time for unity across New Zealand and for supporting each other. I express my love and support for the Muslim communities throughout Otago and Southland.
Your safety, your wellbeing, your sense of belonging is my greatest priority right now. Being good neighbours is something that we all pride ourselves on. Let’s really demonstrate that.
The Prime Minister has expressed this so well. Here are her words:
‘‘A-salaam-alaikum (peace be with you).
I want to acknowledge the unprecedented act of violence that we’ve seen in Christchurch.
It is clear this was an act of terrorism, perpetrated by an individual spreading a message of hate.
This is not who we are.
Many of those affected are from our refugee and migrant communities.
Christchurch was their home. For many, this may not have been the place they were born, but a place they chose to live, raise their families and practice their culture and religion.
They are us.
Those who carried out this act of terror are not us.
This occurred in a place where people were expressing their religious freedom – where they should have been safe.
Our thoughts are with the families and friends of the victims, the community and all who have been affected by this.
I want to thank the medics, the police, the first responders and all of those who have provided assistance.
We are a proud nation of more than 200 ethnicities and 160 languages.
New Zealanders have drawn closer together in the face of this assault on the values we hold dear – community, tolerance and compassion.
Safety and security of New Zealanders is the Government’s top priority. We will do all we can to preserve our way of life.
We thank the international community for their words and acts of kindness and solidarity.
As New Zealanders try to make sense of this, we are seeking answers as a matter of urgency.’’
‘They are us.’