NZ has made progress on intolerance, says departing imam

Imam Gamal Fouda said that since the attack, in which 51 people were killed, “New Zealand has taken significant steps toward addressing racism and Islamophobia”.

“The way the Government and the public responded showed a commitment to inclusivity,” he said.

“Laws around firearms have changed, and conversations about tolerance and respect are now more open and urgent.”

Reflecting on the aftermath of the attack, Fouda acknowledged the challenges that he faced in leading the community through grief.

“It has been a deeply emotional journey. Leading a community through grief while carrying my own pain has been challenging, but my faith has kept me strong.

“There were moments of exhaustion, but seeing the resilience and kindness of people around me always gave me strength,” he said.

Fouda recently announced that he will leave Christchurch later this year to lead a mosque in Australia. He will continue his role in Christchurch until the Eid-ul-Fitr festival, which marks the end of the Muslim season of Ramadan, at the end of March.

Muslim Association of Canterbury spokesman Ahmed Khan said that Fouda’s departure would be deeply felt.

“He’s always been a good-hearted person, and his leadership, especially after the March 15 attacks, brought us all together,” said Khan.

Khan noted how the imam’s speech in the days after the attacks resonated with many.

“His words brought comfort, and his role in fostering community ties will be remembered for years,” Khan said.

FULL STORY

https://www.thepress.co.nz/nz-news/360599485/imam-gamal-fouda-leaving-al-noor-mosque-after-ramadan (By Wei Shao/The Press)