We must fight violent ideologies everywhere

Our readers have their say about the Christchurch terror attacks, the Special Olympics, and "EggBoi"

People place a candle among flowers and tributes near Al Noor mosque on March 18, 2019 in Christchurch, New Zealand. Getty Images

I write to you in reference to The National's coverage of the terrible massacre of 50 Muslim men, women and children in two mosques in Christchurch, New Zealand last Friday.

The news has shaken me, and has contributed to sowing fear in the hearts of Muslims living in the West. The world must recognise that Islamophobia is a real threat to peaceful citizens and combat anti-Muslim rhetoric that deliberately conflates Islamist terrorism to ordinary Muslims. We cannot let this dangerous ideology spread any further.

Donald Trump has minimised the importance of the Christchurch terror attack, insisting that white supremacy is not a societal problem and only affects fringe elements that may go off the rails every once in a while.

The “lone wolf” narrative is a very convenient one for right-wing politicians that have relied on sowing the seeds of hatred to get elected, but the facts are that white supremacy is just as much of a terror threat as Islamism. We must not give in to fear and do our best to eradicte intolerance and violent ideologies.

Mohammad Hamza, Dubai

The Special Olympics World Games portray the values of the UAE

I write to you in reference to your article Special Olympics Opening Ceremony: Abu Dhabi World Games declared open - as it happened (March 15).

The National's coverage of the recent Special Olympics World Games in Abu Dhabi inaugurated by Sheikh Mohamed Bin Zayed has shed light on an impressive ceremony. I enjoyed watched the Zayed Sports City filled with joy as the crowd cheered on the participants as people of all abilities gathered for the inauguration.

Such events are a source of pride for the UAE and consolidate values of tolerance and respect in the country.

The Games will surely have a durable legacy, and I was happy that your newspaper undelrined the fact that all the participants are winners in these games.

K. Ragavan, Bengaluru

Eggboi is an anti-racist hero

I refer to your article New Zealand attack: GoFundMe page for 'EggBoi' who took on racist senator raises thousands (March 17).

Will Connolly, the teenager who egged the racist Australian Senator Fraser Anning, is truly a hero. Politicians who fuel hatred and blame the victims of terror attacks for their own demise now understand that we will not let them spread dangerous ideas.

I hope Will Connolly will use the money from this GoFundMe page to buy more eggs.

Fernadia Kearns, Al Ain