On Saturday 23rd March 2019, Under the banner ”United We Stand Against Hate” the vigil for New Zealand brought together diverse communities and faiths to show respect for the victims of the massacre which took place in Christchurch, New Zealand on Friday 15th March 2019.
Our local community wish to express our heartfelt condolences to all who are affected by the events that unfolded in Christchurch including Fife Arabic Society, Kirkcaldy Islamic Centre and Kirkcaldy Central Mosque.
A vigil started with a minute silence and verses of the holy Quran recited in respect for the victims. Lesley Laird MP, David Torrance MSP, Dr Ali (Chair of Fife Arabic Society), Imam Mansour (Kirkcaldy Central Mosque) and Ishfaq Mohammed (Kirkcaldy Islamic Centre) all spoke about the importance of community cohesion and standing together in times where other seek to divide us all.
Fifty candles were lit, representing the number of victims and a book of condolences was signed by participants. For the first time in Fife, a prayer for the victims and their friends and family was held by Muslims members in the high street; watched and supported by other communities.
We thank everyone who attended the vigil, including churches, politicians, wider Scottish community, and the Muslim/Arab communities. A special thank you to Fife Police for their valuable support and professionalism before and during the vigil.