Muslim leaders in Sydney have spoken out against Islamophobic graffiti discovered near a local high school, labelling it as a troubling sign of the rising hatred and prejudice in Australian communities. The offensive message, which included a derogatory term about the Prophet Muhammad, was found spray-painted on a footpath in Sefton.
In a statement, the Alliance of Australians for Muslims and the Australian National Imams Council condemned this act of vandalism, asserting that it reflects a broader issue of intolerance. They highlighted the persistent inadequacy of responses from political figures, law enforcement, and media outlets regarding such incidents, suggesting that this neglect fuels the perception that Islamophobia does not warrant serious attention.
The graffiti is not merely an isolated act but illustrates escalating bigotry that threatens the fabric of society. The groups called for a unified rejection of any actions aimed at intimidating individuals based on their race or religion.
Earlier this year, similar instances of graffiti displaying anti-Arab sentiments were reported, inciting strong condemnation from officials including Home Affairs Minister Tony Burke, who denounced the actions as representing a minority of hate that does not reflect Australian values.