Human Rights Commission
Media Release
13 August 2007

Harmony award fitting way to celebrate ‘Unity in Diversity’

Race Relations Commissioner Joris de Bres last night presented Annette Mortensen with a supreme harmony award for her outstanding contribution to Muslim relations in New Zealand.

Mr de Bres said the award was a fitting way to start Islam Awareness Week 2007 the theme of which is ‘Unity in Diversity’.

“Annette’s contribution to improving understanding and harmonious relations between Muslims and the wider community is a great example of how we can all find unity in diversity,” he said.

The annual award given by the Federation of Islamic Associations of New Zealand (FIANZ) is for a non-Muslim person.

Annette Mortensen is a Project Manager at the Ministry of Health with a focus on refugee and migrant health matters. She is well known for her advocacy work to address health and other settlement needs.

Her contribution to Muslim refugee communities includes work to address family violence and helping to establish the first swimming programme for Muslim women in Auckland.

Islam Awareness Week is an annual event organised by FIANZ. It aims to increase New Zealanders’ awareness of Muslim diversity and beliefs, values and practices and provides an opportunity to engage with Muslim communities throughout New Zealand.

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