New Zealand’s Human Rights Commission had joined religious leaders in rejecting hateful acts linked to religion in this country and overseas.
“We mourn the tragic, heartbreaking loss of all lives in the conflict in Gaza and Israel: but we must honour their lives by standing up for peace at all costs,” said Chief Human Rights Commissioner David Rutherford.
“We do not honour their lives by bringing violent hatred into New Zealand,” he said.
The Human Rights Commission statement came after reported attacks on Jewish people and communities, which the commission condemned.
Race Relations Commissioner Dame Susan Devoy recalled attacks on Islamic New Zealanders following terrorist attacks on the United States in 2001.
“If Kiwis want peace overseas then we need to start by behaving like people who want peace and that’s right here in New Zealand. Peace and human rights begin at home,” said Dame Susan.