At a lavish ceremony at the Highline Venue in Bankstown, NSW on Sunday, 15 September, the independent Australian Muslim Times newspaper celebrated its 10th anniversary.
The celebration’s key theme concerned the invaluable role of independent media in addressing question about justice, whether in domestic policies or concerning international relations.
The evening’s keynote speaker, Senator Fatima Payman reminded the audience of the value of courage in public life. She spoke of her dismay and sadness regarding Labor Party cowardice over Gaza, and the significance of media that does not simply repeat the claims made by major political parties.
Following Senator Payman, several speakers acknowledged the founder of the Australian Muslim Times, Dr Qazi Ashfaq Ahmad, who was also a pioneer in creating cultural and educational institutions.
In praise for independent journalism, the current editor-in-chief of AMUST, Zia Ahmad gave the ‘Ink & Impact Awards’ to several journalists and representatives of journals, including Pearls & Irritations.
In his comment about P&I, Zia recognised the work of John Menadue in building “a courageous journal which provides a unique and indispensable daily analysis of major political, social and economic issues, a journal’, he said, ‘which raises questions neglected by mainstream media”.
This Sunday night Muslim celebration before 400 guests was warm, generous and inclusive.
If hospitality is a culture, the Australian Muslim Times deserves support and gratitude for being such an important builder of this culture.
Herewith a picture of the award which I accepted on behalf of Pearls and Irritations.
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