Durban, March 16, 2019: The South African Muslim Network expresses its horror at the mindless bloody terrorist attacks
on the Muslim community of Christchurch, New Zealand, which took place on Friday 15 March 2019.
Sadly, however, given the almost incessant negative portrayal of Islam and Muslims, the stereotyping of Muslims in the
media and the entertainment industry, it is not unexpected. Hence, there would be a growth in Islamophobia. This
growth resulting in the sort of hate espoused by various social media platforms, major political leaders, is proof of the
effect of almost 2 decades long negative narrative about Islam and Muslims. The media and those in the entertainment
industry need to introspect deeply and seriously about the way their roles are creating discord, distrust and disharmony
in support of political agendas.
We call on all Muslims around the world to react with the dignity and self-restraint that is inherent in the teachings of the
Holy Quraan and the examples of God Almighty’s last Messenger, our beloved Prophet Muhammed (Peace Be Upon
Him).
This tragedy reminds us of our vulnerability as human beings. In times of division, it is critical that we stand together as a
single humanity. We oppose every and any act that fragments us from racism, bigotry and violence against any member
of society, the central tenet of our religion being PEACE. We appeal to the media and politicians to consider the impact
of their words and their ability to generate Islamophobia. The manner in which a problem is portrayed, is how it is
perceived, and media driven stereotypes; all end up having an impact on people on the ground.
We send our condolences and prayers to the families of the deceased and we wish a speedy recovery for the injured.
Dr. Faisal Suliman
Chairperson
The South African Muslim Network (SAMNET) calls Mosque trustees, Ulema, Imams and all Mosque representatives to come on board and join the 2019 National Mosque Open Day.
The National Mosque Open Day campaign held annually encourages Mosques to open their doors to the public simultaneously on Heritage Day. The aim is to ease tensions caused by negative media attention towards Muslims and Islam, build and strengthen relations with other religious groups, and encourage members of the public to get to know their local mosque.
The 2018 National Mosque Open Day campaign hosted over 800 participants across 20 mosques. Participants left the mosque with a better understanding of Islam, a sense of community and more accurate information and mutual understanding and tolerance that it brings.
At the time of Prophet Muhammed (peace be upon him), mosques were safe places where communities could gravitate toward. Mosques have the capacity and potential to not only act as places of worship but as a place of education and a community center. The campaign is not about evangelism and proselytizing but about information sharing and making information accessible to people of other faith groups.
Some of the comments by visitors and hosts at the 2018 National Mosque Open Day:
‘I had been watching TV for many years which had shaped my views on Muslims. Today my entire perspective has changed’ – A visitor of the Mosque Open Day at Musallah on Musgrave
‘What impressed me the most was learning about Islam and seeing their view of their religion.’ – A visitor of the Mosque Open Day at Husami Masjid
‘I thoroughly enjoyed my time at Musallah on Musgrave and managed to build on what I have learnt over the years from Muslim colleagues and staff members. I think SAMNET’s annual Mosque Open Day initiative is a worthy initiative well worth continuing.’
We have had participating mosques across Kwa-Zulu Natal, Western Cape, Northern Cape and Gauteng and hope to see the numbers increase tenfold this year. We appeal to mosques in Eastern Cape, Free State, Limpopo, North West and Mpumalanga and cities such as Benoni, Lenasia and Pietermaritzburg. We also hope to see the National Mosque Open Day reach townships and rural areas. This is a campaign to shine light and spread understanding about Islam and Muslims on all corners of South Africa. This will only be possible with your influence and courage.
Some of our Mosque representatives hosted their Mosque Open Day for the first time last year and they have been pleased with their efforts. SAMNET endeavors to provide mosque representatives with all the necessary information required to host a successful Mosque Open Day. Guidance is provided by the Islamic Propagation Centre International (IPCI) who will send pamphlets and booklets to participating mosques across the country. The IPCI carries out mosque tours to people of other faiths throughout the year and is in a position to provide expertise.
SAMNET will do national marketing and invitations to community leaders, police chiefs and schools to name a few. The participating mosque is encouraged to do local marketing on the ground.
To participate in the 2019 National Mosque Open Day or if you have any queries, send us an email on info@samnet.co.za or call us on 031 207 4223.
Faisal Suliman
Chairperson
