Tag: religious diversity

Upholding Religious Freedom and Respect for All

Dave Moskovitz

Joint Statement from New Zealand Faith Communities

As leaders and representatives of diverse religious communities across Aotearoa New Zealand, we are united in our concern about the messages promoted during the public protest held on June 21, 2025 by Brian Tamaki and his followers against immigration and the spread of non-Christian religions in New Zealand.

The right to protest is a cornerstone of democracy. However, we are saddened to see rhetoric that appeared to diminish the place of some faiths in New Zealand’s multicultural society. Our religious traditions may differ, but we all share a common commitment to compassion, dignity, and the peaceful coexistence of communities.

New Zealand’s strength lies in its diversity, including its religious diversity. The freedom to worship, or not to worship, is a value we all cherish. We believe that no one faith should be positioned as having greater legitimacy than others in the life of our nation.

We encourage dialogue rather than division, and understanding rather than suspicion. In times of tension, it is especially important that we come together in the spirit of unity and mutual respect.

We remain committed to working together across our faiths to uphold these values and to support the inclusive, respectful society that we all seek to build.

Endorsed by:

New Zealand Jewish Council
NZ Central Sikh Association
Hindu Foundation NZ
Somaliland Society in New Zealand Incorporated
Wellington Abrahamic Council

Religious Diversity Workshop for Young Adults 18-35

Dave Moskovitz

When: Thursday 31 October 2019 4-9pm
Where: Wellington Islamic Centre, 7 Queen’s Drive, Kilbirnie

Tickets are mandatory for this event. You can purchase tickets on Eventbrite.

Religious Diversity: Encountering other religions

The Religious Diversity and Anti-discrimination workshop is designed to facilitate safe and productive interreligious encounters between Jewish, Christian, and Muslim young adults (18-35).

Workshop Participants will:

  • Share experiences of religion, ethnicity and culture within a safe environment
  • Explore the meaning, impact and issues of religious diversity in Aotearoa New Zealand
  • Address local manifestations of stereotyping, prejudice and discrimination related to religion
  • Develop skills for creating inclusive intercultural environments.

The workshop will be highly interactive, fun, and challenging. It will be led by two facilitators trained and accredited by the internationally acclaimed Belieforama Programme. It is provided by the Religious Diversity Centre of Aotearoa / New Zealand in conjunction with the Wellington Abrahamic Council.

Please help us by promoting this event to young adults in your synagogue, church, or mosque.

Image credit: Aia Fernandez