The sheikh of a Hoppers Crossing mosque believes he is the first in Australia to wear a white ribbon while delivering sermons.
Sheikh Issa Musse, of Virgin Mary Masjid, wore the ribbon proudly while dedicating the day’s sermons to tackling family violence on Friday, which was also White Ribbon Day.
“I spoke about how Islam condemns domestic violence, how it is evil,” Sheikh Musse said.
“Islam teaches men today to respect their wives, to create a stable home, especially when children are involved. When children watch abuse, whether it is emotional, physical or financial, they will grow up and adopt this. It needs to stop.”
Sheikh Musse delivered the sermon to more than 400 worshippers at two separate sessions.
Meanwhile, at a separate White Ribbon Day event at Wayaperri House, Wyndham deputy mayor Kim McAliney spoke of her experiences with family violence as a former Legal Aid director, working at crisis counselling services and as a bail justice.
“Unfortunately, family violence is an increasing issue here in Wyndham,” she said.
“The victims, who are mostly women, can be our mothers, sisters, nieces, daughters, or granddaughters or our friends. Violence against women is totally unacceptable and council will continue to reinforce this message.”
White Ribbon Day is a nationwide campaign, raising awareness of violence against women.
Adem Saban
