Vigil in Memory of Christchurch Attack Victims

March 24, 2019 - 6:00pm

Soldiers & Sailors Memorial Hall

Leaders from Pittsburgh’s Muslim community invite allies to join them in remembrance of the 51 innocent victims of the Christchurch attack in New Zealand. Organizers urge the Pittsburgh community to help rehumanize Muslims, challenge Islamophobic narrative portrayed in mainstream media. Speakers include local advocate Wasi Mohamed and former white nationalist Arno Michaelis. This free community event will take place on Sunday, March 24th at Soldiers & Sailors in Oakland, doors open at 5:30PM and program begins at 6PM.

The event will spotlight each of the 51 people killed, through imagery and readings, beginning with the youngest known victim, 3-year-old Mucaad Ibrahim, known for his intelligence, love of soccer, and admiration for his elders. Local leaders will take the stage in prayer and messages of solidarity.

Designed to advance unity and allyship, organizers also aim to provide actionable steps that the greater Pittsburgh community can take with them to combat Islamophobia. A call to action will center on rehumanizing all who are unjustly demonized including Muslims, Black Americans, and refugees.

The event is organized by local Muslim leaders in partnership with the Muslim Student Association at the University of Pittsburgh and Carnegie Mellon University.  For more information, please contact Alaa Mohamed at akmohamed52@gmail.com.