The first session of the parliament in New Zealand after the horrific attack in Christchurch on the Muslim community commenced with a recitation from the Holy Quran.
Nizam ul Haq Thanvi recited verses from the Quran for the victims of last week’s massacre following which a translation into English was pronounced.
New Zealand’s Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern also spoke the Islamic greeting “As-salamu alaykum” or “peace be upon you” at the onset of her passionate speech in which she urged the public to follow her lead and avoid giving the gunman the fame.
Ordinary New Zealander continue to show solidarity to their fellow Muslims by visiting the Al-Noor masjid as well as around the New Zealand.
St Paul’s College students paid a visit and sang “Mo Maria” inside a mosque in Ponsonby Auckland.
The song is one of a number of tributes from around the country as New Zealanders show their support for those who lost loved ones in the terror attack on March 15.
Why Maori Haka Dance when everyone in mourning? Well this is a ceremonial dance or chellenge in Maori culture. Usually it way to showing physical expression and performed by a grooup, with vigorous movements and stamping of the feet.
In a nation known for its low crime rate, the terrorist attack at Al Noor Mosque and Linwood Islamic Centre that left 50 people dead and 50 more injured came as a shock.
To pay tribute to the victims and to mourn the dead, people in New Zealand and around the world have been performing the haka dance, a traditional Maori ritual that symbolizes strength and a sense of community.