Auckland Mosque Attacked, Prime Minister and Other Government Leaders Respond

July 11, 2005

Source: The New Zealand Herald

http://www.nzherald.co.nz/index.cfm?c_id=1&ObjectID=10335220

On July 11, 2005 The New Zealand Herald reported, "Race Relations Commissioner Joris de Bres has joined the chorus deploring the 'unwarranted' attack of mosques in the weekend and has urged New Zealanders to send messages of support to the stunned Muslim community.

The anti-Muslim backlash feared worldwide following the London bombings surfaced in Auckland on Sunday morning as six mosques were desecrated.

Mr de Bres said the attacks were unwarranted and asked New Zealanders to support the New Zealand Islamic community.

'Leaders of the Muslim community in New Zealand have utterly condemned the London bombings and made it clear that such actions cannot be justified in terms of their religion,' he said. 'Despite this, New Zealand Muslims have now themselves become innocent victims. We need to renew our efforts to foster understanding and to create a climate of tolerance and support.'"