Launching of The third edition of the National Statement on Religious Diversity
To achieve the aim of making New Zealand into a religiously diversified harmonious land, the third edition of the National Statement on Religious Diversity was officially launched on 10th December. This was jointly organised by New Zealand Human Rights Commission (HRC) and New Zealand office of Ethnic Communities and Religious Diversity Centre. Leaders of various religious and ethnic organisations were invited to this function held at Christchurch Tauranga Library, among whom were Commissioner of New Zealand Race Relations Meng Foon, Deputy Mayor of Christchurch Andrew Turner, Professor Paul Morris of Victoria University, and Advisor to New Zealand Police on Ethnic Affairs Inspector Rakesh Naidoo. Representing the Buddhist faith, Fo Guang Shan (FGS) New Zealand Abbess Venerable Manshin, and members of Buddha’s Light International Organisation (BLIA) New Zealand participated in the launching.
Professor Paul Morris of Victoria University was the Master of Ceremony and he invited the guests of honours to speak on the important significance of this 3rd Declaration. Deputy Mayor expressed the view that Christchurch City Council always seeks the cooperation of public organisations to promote and strengthen religious and ethnical harmony. The third edition of the National Statement is timely as it aims to promote dialogs among the various religions, which will minimise misunderstandings and reduce conflicts.
In his speech, Inspector Rakesh Naidoo recalled his personal experience as a student in the New Zealand Police Academy. He has been a vegetarian all his life and he raised the issue of vegetarian food with the Academy Authority and the Academy took action to cater to his needs. Now, the Police Academy has changed their food menu to suit the eating habits and requirements of the students from various religious and ethnic backgrounds. This practice of ethnical and religious tolerance and understanding not only earns the New Zealand Police a good name but also serves to promote societal harmony in New Zealand.
In his speech, HRC Race Relations Commissioner Meng Foon said that a good leader can lead the society into a good path and can set high moral standards. He stressed the importance of diversity and plurality of religions and hoped that the public can understand the meaning of serving others. Last month he attended the opening of Art Salon at FGS North Island and was very impressed by the enthusiasm and positivity shown by BLIA members in serving the public. Being the Commissioner, Meng Foon said that his first priority will be the eradication of bullying in schools through education and proper guidance, so that in future the students can study in a harmonious environment.
At the end of the launching, the organiser thanked everyone for his attendance and hoped that the third edition of the National Statement on Religious Diversity can penetrate deeply into the New Zealand society, so that the good name of New Zealand as a peaceful and harmonious land can be maintained.