Wednesday, 19 March 2025

Community safety

[NAMES AWAITING VERIFICATION]

Luba GRIGOROVITCH (Kororoit) (19:21): (1080) My adjournment matter is for the Minister for Multicultural Affairs. The action I seek is an update on what the Victorian government is doing to combat Islamophobia in Kororoit and across the state. Islamophobia remains a pressing concern, impacting the safety, wellbeing and sense of belonging for many in our community. In Kororoit we are proud of our diversity and our commitment to inclusivity. It is imperative that we continue working together to ensure that every Victorian, regardless of faith, feels safe, respected and valued.

Last week I had the privilege of co-hosting my second annual iftar dinner in Kororoit during Ramadan, with the Qaim Foundation. We heard from children sharing poetry and describing in their own words what Ramadan means to them. Among the young voices that graced the evening were Zan, Ali and Uma Abbas, whose heartfelt words captured the essence of faith, self reflection and community spirit. Their poetry was moving testament to the values of Ramadan – compassion, generosity and unity. It was genuinely inspiring to witness our young leaders expressing themselves and being so passionate about their faith. We were also fortunate to hear from resident scholar Maulana Wajid Hussain Mehdavi, who shared his wisdom and insights on the importance of community and faith. His words served as a reminder that fostering understanding and respect among different faiths is a shared responsibility which we all hold. I was joined by my parliamentary colleagues Steve McGhie and Kathleen Matthews-Ward as well as federal member Sam Rae. Together we witnessed firsthand the incredible work of the Qaim Foundation and what they do to strengthen the community. This event was not just about breaking fast; it was about building relationships, learning from one another and reinforcing the values of inclusivity and of course respect.

I want to take a moment to sincerely thank the outgoing president of the Qaim Foundation, who started this annual event, Rehan, for his dedication and the remarkable work he has done and continues to do for the foundation. His leadership has been instrumental in fostering a sense of belonging and unity in our community. I also extend a warm welcome to the incoming president Intezar Hussain. I look forward to continuing the strong relationship with him and the rest of the committee. This event was a testament to the power of interfaith dialogue, as members of various faiths from across Kororoit came together, not only to learn about Ramadan but to build connections and foster mutual understanding and respect for each other. It is through these shared experiences that we can strengthen our bonds and ensure that Kororoit and Victoria remain places of harmony, respect and inclusivity.

To the members of the Qaim Foundation, thank you once again for your generosity and for welcoming us into your community to break fast together. Your hospitality and commitment to unity are truly appreciated. I would like to take this opportunity to wish everyone, not only in Kororoit but across our great state, Ramadan Mubarak.