“Today is the International Day to Combat Islamophobia. It is a day of international observance established by the United Nations following the terror attack on a mosque in Christchurch.
“According to the Islamophobia in Australia Report, Islamophobia is more prevalent now than at any time in the last ten years. The rise in Islamophobia and antisemitism – which is also at unprecedented levels – has a common cause: hatred directed at people on the basis of their faith.
“We condemn Islamophobia, antisemitism and all acts of hate directed at any group in our community.
“We condemn those who, through word or deed, attempt to set one community against another.
“In commemorating this day, we call on people of all faiths and none to respect the diversity of beliefs in our state. Each of us has a responsibility to build trust within our multicultural and multifaith communities.”
The following is a statement from the NSW Faith Affairs Council:
