I had the incredible opportunity last night to speak at the Ministers’ Muslim Australian Reference Group.

My role was to give feedback on the CRC Youth and Religion Conference, which was held on October 21st at the ParkRoyal Hotel. I was one of the youth speakers there. I really enjoyed hearing  the stories of young people from the Egyptian Coptic, Sikh and Hindu faith. I only came in for the afternoon session, and I missed out on the talks given by Catholic, Jewish, Christian youth, as well as another Muslim youth. Interfaith dialogue is so critical in today’s world. Humanising the face of religion makes such a big difference.

Last night, I met the Hon. Victor Dominello MP, Minister for Citizenship and Communities and Aboriginal Affairs. He’s really cool! He spoke a bit about his parents coming in from Italy when they were children, making him a second-generation Italian migrant. It’s heartening to see someone from his background making his way in the world, and helping to generate positive change for the rest of the community.

I can only hope that with the passage of time and positive government support, the Muslim community in Australia will have an easier time co-existing with everyone else.