On Saturday, 27 September 2025, the Queensland Hazara Council hosted a solemn and moving Hazara Genocide Commemoration Event at the Unity Hub Community Centre in Slacks Creek. The gathering brought together community members, leaders, and supporters to remember the victims of Hazara genocide, honour their resilience, and strengthen calls for justice and recognition.
A Dignified Program
The event was co-hosted by Fahima Ahmadi and Ehsan Hassanzada, who did an exceptional job as MCs.
The commemoration began with a Quran recitation by Zaki Hassani, setting a respectful and reflective tone. Soon after, Charis Mullen MP, State Member for Jordan, delivered a speech that highlighted the importance of remembrance and solidarity.
The atmosphere was deeply moving as the Omid Dari School Choir performed in Farsi, filling the hall with voices of the younger generation, carrying both sorrow and hope.
A keynote address was given by Mr. Mehdi Afzali, who shared a powerful account of Hazara history, the genocide of the 1890s, and the ongoing persecution of Hazaras in Afghanistan today. His message underscored the need to know and understand this painful history to prevent its repetition.
One of the most emotional moments came when Fahima Ahmadi read a poem about what it means to be a young Hazara, followed by a minute of silence that gave space for personal reflection and collective mourning.
The program continued with a traditional dambora performance by Mr. Hossain Dilsoz, adding cultural depth and connecting attendees to Hazara artistic heritage.
Community voices followed with heartfelt speeches by Ehsan Hassanzada (in Farsi), Setara Sharifi (in English), and Asma Hassan (in Farsi). Each addressed themes of identity, injustice, and resilience, reminding the audience that the struggle for recognition and rights continues.
The event closed with remarks in both English and Farsi, emphasising unity and gratitude. Attendees then gathered for light refreshments and networking, creating an opportunity to connect, reflect, and share their experiences.
The commemoration began with a Quran recitation by Zaki Hassani, setting a respectful and reflective tone. Soon after, Charis Mullen MP, State Member for Jordan, delivered a speech that highlighted the importance of remembrance and solidarity.
The atmosphere was deeply moving as the Omid Dari School Choir performed in Farsi, filling the hall with voices of the younger generation, carrying both sorrow and hope.
A keynote address was given by Mr. Mehdi Afzali, who shared a powerful account of Hazara history, the genocide of the 1890s, and the ongoing persecution of Hazaras in Afghanistan today. His message underscored the need to know and understand this painful history to prevent its repetition.
One of the most emotional moments came when Fahima Ahmadi read a poem about what it means to be a young Hazara, followed by a minute of silence that gave space for personal reflection and collective mourning.
The program continued with a traditional dambora performance by Mr. Hossain Dilsoz, adding cultural depth and connecting attendees to Hazara artistic heritage.
Community voices followed with heartfelt speeches by Ehsan Hassanzada (in Farsi), Setara Sharifi (in English), and Asma Hassan (in Farsi). Each addressed themes of identity, injustice, and resilience, reminding the audience that the struggle for recognition and rights continues.
The event closed with remarks in both English and Farsi, emphasising unity and gratitude. Attendees then gathered for light refreshments and networking, creating an opportunity to connect, reflect, and share their experiences.
