27/04/2026
Advocates for Dignity (AFD) in partnership with the Asylum Seeker Resource Centre (ASRC) to 6th Annual Solidarity for Humanity Iftar Dinner on Wednesday, 11th of March 2025.
Iftar Dinner Unites Communities in a Powerful Call for Justice, Dignity, and Hope
In a world increasingly shaped by division and uncertainty, the 6th Annual Solidarity for Humanity Iftar Dinner in Melbourne stood as a powerful reminder of what is possible when communities come together in the spirit of unity, compassion, and shared humanity.
Hosted by Advocates for Dignity (AFD) in partnership with the Asylum Seeker Resource Centre (ASRC), and supported by the Selimiye Foundation, Australian Relief Organisation, and Sirius College, the evening brought together a diverse gathering of leaders, advocates, and community members committed to advancing human rights and social cohesion.
A Warm Welcome Grounded in Respect and Inclusion
Master of Ceremonies Karen Percy opened the evening with a message of peace and inclusivity, welcoming distinguished guests from across the judiciary, academia, human rights organisations, refugee services, and multi-faith communities.
The event began with an Acknowledgement of Country, paying respect to the Traditional Owners of the land and their enduring connection to culture and community—setting a tone of reflection and respect.
Guests representing a rich tapestry of backgrounds—including Australian, Palestinian, Ukrainian, Afghan, Uyghur, Turkish, and Middle Eastern communities—gathered not only to break the fast, but to strengthen bonds across cultures.
Ramadan: A Time of Reflection, Compassion, and Unity
The significance of Ramadan was a central theme throughout the evening. Observed by more than 2 billion Muslims worldwide, including over 1.1 million in Australia, Ramadan is a sacred period marked by fasting from dawn to sunset, spiritual reflection, and acts of charity.
Beyond abstaining from food and drink, Ramadan calls for self-discipline, gratitude, and compassion—values that resonated deeply within the gathering.
Iftar dinners, such as this one, serve as powerful spaces where people of all backgrounds can come together, fostering understanding, dialogue, and a shared commitment to humanity.
Honouring Shared Spiritual Heritage
A deeply moving moment of the evening came with the recitation of the Qur’an by Imam Ibrahim Karaisli, reminding attendees of the spiritual foundations of Ramadan.
Reflections highlighted that the Qur’an, revealed over 23 years beginning in Ramadan, represents the continuation of a long tradition of divine guidance—from Adam, Abraham, Moses, David, to Jesus—underscoring a shared spiritual heritage across faiths grounded in justice, compassion, and moral responsibility.
“Come with Purpose”: A Powerful Welcome to Country
Professor Mark Rose delivered a profound Welcome to Country, sharing the meaning of “Wominjeka”—not simply “welcome,” but an invitation to “come with purpose.”
Drawing on Indigenous knowledge, he reframed borders not as divisions, but as meeting places—spaces where people connect, learn, and grow together. His reflections on Australia’s multicultural identity and evolving future reinforced a key message of the evening: diversity is a strength to be embraced.
Community Over Division: A Message of Belonging
Speaking on behalf of the ASRC, Ogy Simic reflected on his own journey as a refugee and the organisation’s vital role in supporting approximately 8,000 people seeking asylum each year.
More than providing essential services, the ASRC fosters belonging and dignity. Simic highlighted the organisation’s guiding principle: “longer tables, not bigger walls”—a call for inclusion in the face of growing global division.
A Call to Conscience and Collective Responsibility
AFD Executive Director Abdul Celil Gelim delivered a powerful address calling for renewed commitment to justice and human dignity.
Referencing the global displacement crisis affecting over 114 million people, he reminded attendees that behind every statistic is a human life. He urged communities to reject silence in the face of injustice and to actively uphold the principles of equality, democracy, and human rights.
Keynote Address: Human Rights Under Pressure
Keynote speaker Abiola Ajetomobi delivered one of the evening’s most impactful speeches, addressing the theme:
“Human Rights Under Pressure: Democracy, Conflict, and Accountability in a Fractured World.”
Drawing from her journey—from seeking asylum to becoming a leading advocate—she highlighted the erosion of human rights globally, driven by conflict, authoritarianism, and shrinking civic space.
Yet her message was ultimately one of empowerment. She called on individuals and communities to engage actively in shaping policy, advocating for justice, and protecting dignity—not just for themselves, but for others.
Her words resonated deeply:
“Dignity is inherent. It belongs to all of us.”
Voices of Experience, Advocacy, and Reflection
The evening featured powerful contributions from a diverse range of speakers:
• Former MP Maria Vamvakinou reflected on decades of refugee advocacy and the enduring need for compassion.
• Retired Judge Julie Dodds-Streeton highlighted the fragility of human rights, even in established democracies.
• Dr Omer Atilla Ergi emphasised justice as the foundation of strong societies.
• Professor Marko Pavlyshyn spoke of solidarity with displaced communities worldwide.
• Tasneem Chopra called for courage in amplifying marginalised voices.
Each speaker reinforced a shared message: human rights require constant vigilance, advocacy, and collective action.
Love Beyond Difference: A Message of Interfaith Unity
Professor Mimmie Watts offered a deeply personal reflection on love across faiths, sharing the story of a Christian woman and a Muslim man building a life together.
Her message was clear and powerful: unity does not require sameness. Instead, it calls for respect, understanding, and growth.
Drawing on both the Qur’an and the Bible, she reminded the audience that faith traditions ultimately call for compassion, coexistence, and recognition of shared humanity.
Youth Voices Inspire Through Poetry
Two Year 12 students from Sirius College, Sarah Awad and Hifsa Banoori, delivered moving poetry that captured the emotional core of the evening.
Their performances addressed themes of justice, resilience, and the human cost of conflict—demonstrating the vital role of young voices in shaping a more compassionate future.
Recognising Contributions and Strengthening Community
The evening also included a series of presentations honouring the contributions of speakers and community leaders who have dedicated their lives to advancing human rights and social cohesion.
These moments of recognition highlighted the collective effort required to build a more just and inclusive society.
A Night of Unity, Reflection, and Hope
As the evening drew to a close, guests were invited to gather for a group photo—symbolising unity, shared purpose, and collective commitment.
The final message was one of gratitude and hope:
that through continued collaboration, compassion, and advocacy, communities can promote goodwill, protect freedoms, and build a more inclusive future.
A Shared Commitment to Humanity
The Solidarity for Humanity Iftar Dinner was more than an event—it was a powerful expression of what can be achieved when people come together across cultures, faiths, and experiences.
In a fractured world, it served as a reminder that solidarity is strength, diversity is richness, and human dignity must always remain at the centre of our shared future.
