The Somali community in Christchurch are concerned at the reaction via the media of some people to the incident on Thursday in Christchurch.

Hassan Ibrahim, the Christchurch Somali community spokesperson wishes to express that his community are law abiding citizens and are happy to be living in New Zealand. “That this incident has occurred is regretful and we just request that people not to judge us by an isolated unfortunate situation”.

Mr Ibrahim further expressed that such incidents occur across a variety of ethnicities. “These incidents are the unfortunate result of a person who is obviously “disturbed”. Mr Ibrahim urged understanding and reflection to focus on the positive aspects of multiculturalism and at a time approaching Race Relations day (21st March) called for people not play the race card in analysing the incident.

Mr Ibrahim requested other immigrants in New Zealand, and people abroad not to judge the receptiveness of the New Zealand public and Government to cultural diversity based on some extreme views in the recent media.

Mr Ibrahim said the Somali community wish to extend their support and good wishes to the families of the victims of this sad event.

ENDS

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