Image: Mariam (centre) was assaulted at Kmart, Bankstown by Kelly Farrugia (left) for Mariam’s pro-Palestine shirt. Farrugia is also accused of attempting to run over Sheikh Wesam Cherkawi a few days before.
The Australian National Imams Council (ANIC) has strongly condemned a shocking act of verbal and physical aggression against a Muslim mother and her 10-year-old daughter at Bankstown Central Shopping Centre on December 20, 2024. This Islamophobic attack underscores the growing concern about hate-based violence targeting Muslim communities across Australia.
In a public statement issued on Monday 23 December, ANIC called for urgent action, noting the distressing lack of police response at the time of the incident. Despite the seriousness of the attack, which was reported to ANIC’s Action Against Islamophobia (AAI) initiative on December 21, it took over 24 hours for law enforcement to respond. Moreover, the attack was not initially classified as a hate crime, further compounding the trauma experienced by the victims.
This alarming lack of timely police response occurred despite the Australian government’s allocation of $90 million to initiatives aimed at addressing issues like Islamophobia and fostering community safety, as announced by Immigration and Multicultural Affairs Minister Tony Burke on 30 September 2024. The delayed reaction to such a serious incident exposes gaps in the effective implementation of these measures, leaving victims unsupported when they most need protection.
The AAI initiative has provided support to the affected family and escalated the matter to the NSW Police Hate Crimes Unit for further investigation. ANIC has called for a transparent and comprehensive inquiry into the delayed response and procedural shortcomings, emphasising the need to hold the perpetrator accountable under the law.
The Council expressed disappointment in the handling of the incident and urged authorities to address rising Islamophobia with the seriousness it demands. In the face of increasing reports of anti-Muslim hate crimes, ANIC advised the Muslim community to remain vigilant and committed to advocating for systemic changes that ensure safety for all Australians.
This tragic event highlights the need for greater awareness, support for victims, and proactive measures to combat Islamophobia in Australia. ANIC reaffirmed its dedication to supporting those affected and working toward a more inclusive and secure society.
For more information about ANIC’s Action Against Islamophobia initiative or to report incidents, visit their website, https://actionagainstislamophobia.org.au.
Maybe his electorate should ask Senator David Sharma how will he classify this Bankstown incident.
It is definitely not a celebration of Diversity.