Dai Le (Fowler, Independent) Share this | Hansard source

Last week marked the end of the holy month of Ramadan, a time of reflection, generosity and compassion for Australians of the Muslim faith. In my electorate of Fowler, we are home to a large and vibrant Muslim community whose faith and contributions enrich our local area every day. As a Catholic, I've had the honour of attending many religious celebrations across our community, and it's always a privilege to be welcomed into these moments of faith. In recent weeks, I had the privilege of sharing Ramadan and Eid, joining families at the Grand Omar Mosque in Auburn and the Turkish mosque in Bonnyrigg and spending time with the Australian Uyghur community—I hope I pronounced that correctly! These were meaningful moments of prayer, reflection and gratitude after a month of fasting and service to others.

For many in our community, this has also been a time of deep concern, with loved ones in the Middle East and elsewhere facing uncertainty and conflict. I know many have continued to pray for peace while holding close a deep sense of gratitude for the safety and freedom we have here in Australia. I would also like to thank the mayor, Ned Mannoun, and Liverpool City Council for putting on an amazing Most Blessed Nights, where families come together to join in the spirits of Ramadan.

To everyone who observed Ramadan this year: I wish you and your families Eid Mubarak. May the spirit of peace and compassion guide us here at home and remind us of our shared responsibility to stand for dignity, understanding and hope for all communities everywhere.

See this speech in context