Australia declares December 21 as 'day of reflection' to honour Sydney terror attack victims

The Australian government on Friday declared December 21 as a “day of reflection” to honour the victims of the terrorist attack at Sydney’s Bondi Beach and express solidarity with the Jewish community. As many as 15 people died, and 41 others were injured in the attack on Sunday. One of the alleged gunmen, Sajid Akram, was killed while another gunman, his son, Naveed Akram, was injured during a shootout with police. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese also announced that the Commonwealth and state governments will work closely with the Jewish community on arrangements for a national day of mourning to be held in the New Year. He noted that this will allow families of the victims the time and space to lay their loved ones to rest and support those who are still recovering. In a statement, PM Albanese and New South Wales Premier Chris Minns said: “The Day of Reflection will be observed on the final full day of Chanukah, a time traditionally associated with light, faith and resilience, making the loss felt by the Jewish community even more profound. All Australians share in their grief. On Sunday, flags on Australian and NSW Government buildings will be flown at half-mast as a mark of respect for the lives lost and the grief shared across the country.” The two leaders have asked people in Australia to light a candle at 6.47 p.m. (local time), one week since the attack unfolded, as a quiet act of remembrance with family, friends or loved ones. They also urged Australians to observe a minute of silence. “The Day will include a number of ways to help the state reflect: Buildings will light up yellow for the evening. Light will beam into the sky from Bondi Pavilion. The NSW Government will support Jewish leaders to deliver a community memorial event. Television and radio networks will be asked to pause for a minute’s silence at 6.47 p.m. A shareable candle image will be used on social media to pledge support for Jewish Australians,” the statement said. (IANS)

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