Eid al-Fitr, which marks the end of Ramadan (the holy month of fasting was celebrated with full zeal at the New Zealand parliament on May 2, 2023.
Organised by the Minister for Diversity, Inclusion & Ethnic Communities Priyanca Radhakrishnan, the event demonstrates that Muslims are valued members of New Zealand society and that their contributions are recognised and celebrated. Parliamentarian Ibrahim Omer MP was the event’s MC alongside Farhat Shaikh.
Over 250 people attended the event last night, including the acting PM, members of the diplomatic corps and community leaders. It reflected the growing diversity of the country, as well as the Government's commitment to inclusivity and respect for all cultures. It aimed to recognise and celebrate the contributions of the Muslim community in New Zealand and promote multiculturalism and diversity in the Parliament.
The colourful celebration at the Banquet Halls of the Parliament Buildings in Wellington brought together members of Parliament, community leaders, and members of the wider Muslim community. It also provided an opportunity for MPs and other guests to learn more about Muslim culture and traditions.
The keynote speakers of the evening included acting Prime Minister Carmel Sepuloni, Minister Priyanca Radhakrishnan and dignitaries from ethnic communities across the country.
Also in attendance were Minister Michael Wood and MPs Vanushi Walters, Naisi Chen, Ingrid Leary, Tamati Coffey, Helen White, Paul Eagle, Greg O’Connor and Chris Penk.
Talking to The Indian Weekender, Radhakrishnan said, "It was a privilege to host Eid in Parliament again this year, and it was an honour to have the Acting PM attend and address us. It was so lovely to have everyone there on Tuesday evening to celebrate the values of Eid, celebrate our commonality rather than our differences.”
She added, “I have been reflecting on the values of Ramadan and Eid. Values of compassion, generosity, and unity are values that we can all relate to regardless of the ethnic or faith community we identify with, and they are also the values that continue to see us through challenging times. These values manifest in how our communities support one another in tough times, like the aftermath of recent weather events. I used my speech at Eid as an opportunity to thank our ethnic community organisations who have helped and reflected the values of Eid in the response and ongoing recovery.”
Ramil Adhikary, Chairperson of the Public Health Association (Wellington Branch), said, "No doubt, New Zealand has been described as a "super-diverse" country. It was my pleasure to be part of the Eid al-Fitr Celebration at Parliament of New Zealand and meet wonderful community leaders.”.
Communities Action Trust New Zealand's (CATNZ's) Founder, Murali Kumar, said, “It was good to network with a diverse community and government leaders at the Eid al-Fitr event in Parliament.
Adzrina M. Ibrahim of NZ Malaysian Society said, “It. Celebrating Eid/ Hari Raya in a diverse environment at the NZ Parliament. Thanks for having us.”
MP Anahila Kanongata'a said that she enjoyed learning about the Muslim faith.
The attendees enjoyed the traditional food and music, as well as other religious observances.
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