Events to boost tolerance
The council will hold a Shine the Light vigil and walk at Wiley Park, this Thursday, April 4, at 6pm, and an Interfaith Session on Valuing Individuals and Building Community on Wednesday, May 1, 6.30pm at Bankstown Library and Knowledge Centre.
Both events will see leaders of all faiths stand in solidarity, with the aim of strengthening relationships and understanding between religions.
Mayor Asfour said he was deeply saddened to watch, read and hear of the tragic events as they unfolded in Christchurch.
“To see men, women and children lose their lives at the hands of extremists was heartbreaking,” he said.
“We are so fortunate that despite our diversity, we live in peace and harmony, respecting each other’s differences.
“Through the two events, we are sending a strong message across the local community and nation. Canterbury-Bankstown is a city of many nations, religions, cultures and languages, and a community that stands for mutual respect, harmony, peace and unity.”
A member of the Canterbury-Bankstown Interfaith Reference group, Reverend David Wallace, said the Interfaith Session on Valuing Individuals and Building Community would continue to create positive dialogue between faiths.
“It’s a chance for residents to identify issues that are common across the board in our community, and come up with solutions that help our city grow and flourish,” he said.
“It will focus on what a healthy community looks like and how we can work towards it despite our religious and or cultural differences.”
To register for the Session, call 9789 9428, or visit cb.city/whatson
