Assalamualaikum everyone, hope you all had a great weekend. My name is Farwa Nabizada, and I am the Global Prefect.

Today marks the 21st year of celebrating Race Relations Day in New Zealand.This day represents a crucial moment in our ongoing struggle for greater understanding, respect, and acceptance among all people, regardless of their race or cultural background.

At its core, Race Relations Day is a reminder of the beauty and diversity of our world. It is a reminder of the many ways that we can learn from each other and grow as a community. It is a time when we can open our hearts and minds to the experiences of those who are different from us, and celebrate the incredible richness that comes from having a diverse community. But it is also a time to acknowledge the pain and suffering of those who have faced discrimination and prejudice. We must remember the struggles and sacrifices of those who have fought for justice and equality, and honour their courage and determination to overcome these challenges.

I urge all of us to take this day as an opportunity to reflect on the importance of race relations, to embrace our shared humanity, and to celebrate and learn from our differences. We can do this by celebrating the music, art, food, and traditions of different cultures. Having a conversation with people who have had different experiences to us, we can also learn a lot by attending the global club, and getting involved in cultural events. It is crucial to recognize that having healthy race relations cannot be limited to just one day or a week. Instead, it requires a sustained and ongoing effort to learn and embrace.This is a lifelong process but the most important step is making a conscious decision to care about one another. Because the power of love and compassion can heal the wounds of the past and create a brighter future for all.

International Amnesty is celebrating Race Relations Day by organising lunchtime events featuring music, chocolate, engaging games, and creative chalk art. So please go out on the courts with your friends and celebrate.

I want to take this time to say that soon the month of Ramadan will start. During this month, muslims fast from sunrise until sunset, abstaining from food and drink. Muslims fast as an act of worship and obedience to God but it also helps us understand the suffering of those who do not have access to basic necessities, such as food and water, and develop a deeper sense of empathy for them. Ramadan is a time of immense blessings and forgiveness so please use this month as an opportunity to self-reflect and improve. Ramadan mubarak everyone. 

Assalamualaikum - ka kite ano