Today kicks off Unity Week, an approach to honour the lives lost in Christchurch's terror attack while promoting a socially cohesive society.
Unity Week starts on March 15, which is International Day to Combat Islamophobia and the anniversary of the 2019 Christchurch mosque attacks, and runs until March 21.
The initiative was established by the Sakinah Community Trust, a not-for-profit led by seven incredible women who lost loved ones in the tragic March 15 Christchurch mosque attacks: Dr Hamimah Ahmat, Ambreen Naeem, Salwa Mohamad, Raesha Ismail, Farhiya Abdukadir, Dr Kiran Munir and Angela Armstrong.
"It is an annual reminder for our children, whānau (family), colleagues, neighbours and leaders to pause, reflect on the lessons of March 15, keep it in our consciousness, recommit ourselves to continuing the moral fight and engage with each other to shift unhelpful societal attitudes," the organisers' page said.
"Unity Week is an invitation to the world, no matter your age, nationality, religion or background - to set aside some time and energy to really see each other and recognise our shared humanity."
Christchurch Mayor Phil Mauger said Unity Week is a great chance for people to reflect on the past and work towards a more unified future.
"We want Christchurch to be known as a place where everyone is valued, respected and safe and I look forward to being a part of Unity Week," Mauger said in a statement.
There is a range of events including Meet and Eat for Unity Week on Thursday and Walk the Talk for Unity on Saturday. A full list of events can be found here.
Newshub.
