As anti-Semitism and Islamophobia continue to rise globally, a powerful statement of solidarity was made in Parramatta at this year’s Iftar dinner on 11 March 2025.
Hosted by the Columban Centre for Christian-Muslim Relations and the Diocese of Parramatta, the event brought together over 150 guests from a range of faiths and political backgrounds, offering a hopeful message in a time of increasing division.
The Iftar dinner, held during the Muslim holy month of Ramadan, coincided with Lent this year, allowing both Christian and Muslim attendees to reflect together. Faith leaders, including Imam Ayman Hegazy of Parramatta Mosque and Sheikh Mohamed Elshafei, Muslim Chaplain, stood alongside representatives from the Jewish, Baha’i, Buddhist, Hindu, and Sikh communities.
Local politicians also attended, such as The Hon Susan Carter MLC, Shadow Assistant Minister for the Attorney-General; Dr Hugh McDermott MP, Member for Prospect; and Ms Donna Davis MP, Member for Parramatta, showing broad community support for interfaith dialogue.
Fr Patrick McInerney, Director of the Columban Centre, opened the evening by acknowledging the rising threats of anti-Semitism, Islamophobia, and violence.
“We are living in troubled times,” he said, calling on all present to stand united in the face of these divisions. He emphasised the importance of interfaith solidarity, urging attendees to commit to creating a more peaceful, harmonious society.
Bishop Vincent Long OFM Conv, Bishop of Parramatta with Rabbi Zalman Kastel AM. Image: Alphonsus Fok/ Diocese of Parramatta
Bishop Vincent Long OFM Conv, Bishop of Parramatta, whose own refugee experience shaped his advocacy for marginalised communities, also spoke passionately about overcoming division.
We are aware of the many challenges and threats to this country, such as extremism, radicalism, disputes, and religiously motivated violence.
“But despite these challenges, or because of these challenges, we are even more committed to a culture of encounter, dialogue, and solidarity building.”
Bishop Vincent highlighted the importance of dialogue and patience in the face of adversity.
“Such a culture involves patience, trust, and mutual respect in the face of complex and stubborn realities,” he said.
Bishop Vincent emphasised the need to build stronger connections between communities and described Western Sydney as the “epicentre of an ethically diverse, multicultural, and multifaceted Australia.”
Alpha Cheng, son of Curtis Cheng was a keynote speaker at the Iftar Dinner. Image: Alphonsus Fok/ Diocese of Parramatta
Tenth anniversary of Cheng’s murder
Alpha Cheng, a finalist for Young Australian of the Year in 2017, delivered a deeply moving keynote address. His father, Curtis Cheng, was tragically killed in a 2015 terrorist attack at NSW Police Headquarters in Parramatta.
Instead of turning to hate, Alpha has spent years working to build bridges between faith communities.
“I hope in some way tonight, I will weave my personal story and somehow come out with a message for all of us to take home today,” he said.
Remembering 9/11
Associate Professor Derya Iner, a scholar of Islamic Studies and Islamophobia, shared a personal story from her experience traveling to the United States after the 9/11 attacks.
She recalled being greeted with unexpected kindness by a customs officer, despite her vulnerability in a tense moment.
“After 9/11, it was when I was like, 25 years old, a young graduate of a bachelor’s degree, born and raised in Turkey, and I had to fly to America one week after the 9/11 terrorist attacks. I was very timid, going out of my country for the first time,” she said.
“When I landed and was walking through customs, an American customs officer probably saw how fragile and vulnerable I was, and said, ‘Assalamu Alaikum. Welcome to America.’ He had an American accent and an American face, and he was very soothing.”
Her story underscored the theme of vulnerability and humility as powerful tools for connection.
“Our vulnerability with humility can be a source of connection, not a competition connection,” she said.
Dicastery for Interreligious Dialogue’s annual Ramadan and Eid message. Image: Alphonsus Fok/ Diocese of Parramatta
Unity and respect
The Iftar dinner wasn’t just about breaking a fast – it was about breaking barriers.
It highlighted the power of dialogue, empathy, and understanding in combating the rising tide of intolerance. In a time when communities face growing division, the gathering in Parramatta stood as a reminder that we are stronger together.
As tensions around the world continue to rise, events like this remind people that despite the challenges, unity and respect remain the path forward.
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