Muslim students on school grounds. Photo by Vanessa Wee.
A backlash of hate crimes against the Muslim community in Australia is on the rise, with vandalism of a prayer centre and threats spray painted on cars making headlines across the country.
The escalation of attacks against Muslims in Australia has led to mosques and Islamic schools in Western Australia taking extra precautions.
Dr. Din Muhammad Zahid, a member of the Peel Islamic Cultural Association and a committee member of the Mandurah Prayer Centre, said while his local community had not experienced abuse, it was wise to consider precautions before other Australian Muslims were victimised.
“We don’t want anyone else to get hurt, not just those who visit our prayer centre but the entire Muslim community.”
“That being said there is only so much we can do. We must make sure that we are more cautious when in public, especially women wearing the hijab,” said Dr Zahid.
Muslim schools in WA are also concerned, with Muslim parents increasingly worried about their children’s safety at school.
WA Business Manager of the Australian Islamic College Rashida Hafeez said the college is equally concerned about their students’ safety.
“Many parents are scared and have expressed their concerns. We want to let them know that we are listening and that the safety of their child is our priority at this point.”
She said, they are aware the rise in attacks Muslims, especially women and children, and are discussing further plans if the situation gets worse.
Dr Zahid disassociated the local Muslim community from the terror groups now causing worldwide concern.
“As far as I’m concerned, these people who perform such acts are not considered as Muslims,” he said.
The Islamic Council of WA is planning to set up a hotline for its members in Western Australia.