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Overview
This retaining wall in Wellington's Aro Valley features a painted mural of flowers, the peace symbol, and messages of solidarity in the aftermath of the Christchurch terror attacks. The Masjid Al Noor Mosque and the Linwood Islamic Centre were attacked by a heavily armed white supremacist during Friday prayer on 15 March 2019, killing 51 people and wounding 40 more (the last victim died in Christchurch Hospital on 2 May). The victims ranged from three years old to 78.
There was an instant outpouring of grief and outrage online and in streets throughout New Zealand and around the world, from hastily scrawled graffiti to delicate artworks. Even though this mural was technically deemed to be graffiti on public property, the Wellington City Council allowed it to stay in place because it was sympathetic and supportive.
Such images and messaging are often seen in the wake of mass violence. The work of addressing and challenging racism, Islamophobia and white supremacy in our history and everyday life continues.