Lakemba Ramadan Night Markets: A Beacon of Unity in South-West Sydney
The Lakemba Ramadan night markets, running from February 19 to March 16, have transformed Haldon Street into a vibrant hub of cultural celebration. With sixty food vendors offering everything from traditional Middle Eastern desserts to Malaysian specialties, the markets are expected to draw more than one million visitors during the holy month.
Community Spirit Defies Political Rhetoric
As the sun sets each evening, Lakemba comes alive with the aromas of savory meats, sweet breads, and traditional coffee. The atmosphere contrasts sharply with recent political commentary from One Nation leader Pauline Hanson, who suggested there are no "good Muslims" and singled out Lakemba as a place where people "feel unwanted."
"More than one million people would not come to a suburb where they do not feel welcome," says Sheikh Aref Chaker, highlighting the disconnect between political rhetoric and community reality. Local teenagers echo this sentiment, describing Hanson's comments as "stereotypical" and "racist."
Cultural Celebration and Culinary Diversity
The markets feature an impressive array of culinary offerings. Visitors can sample Nabulsi knafeh - a layered dessert of cheese, pistachio, crispy pastry and saffron melded with sweet syrup - or enjoy lime-drenched murtabak and Malaysian beef and cheese rolls. Traditional coffee stalls and juice vendors complete the sensory experience.
"We used to enjoy Ramadan markets every night in our countries," says Bilal, a Lebanese stall operator. "Now Australians from Canberra, Melbourne, and different states come to experience and love it."
Security Concerns Amid Celebration
The celebratory atmosphere has been shadowed by security concerns. Lakemba mosque has received multiple threats in recent weeks, including a call to kill worshippers that came shortly after Hanson's comments. Australian Muslims have also reported increased Islamophobic incidents following the Bondi terror attack.
"These death threats take away from the ambience of peace," Chaker explains. "People are feeling scared. They are not feeling safe to walk down to the mosque."
Community Response and Political Accountability
Australia's race discrimination commissioner has called for an apology from Hanson, while Canterbury Bankstown mayor Bilal El-Hayek has referenced hate speech laws regarding public incitement of hatred and violence.
Chaker emphasizes the responsibility of political leaders: "As someone aspiring to have greater political presence, you should have qualities that unify people and make them feel safe, not that divide them or incite hatred."
Personal Connections and Cultural Exchange
For many visitors, the markets provide a connection to home. Excel, breaking fast with her mother visiting from Jakarta, explains: "When you are far from home, sometimes it feels like you want something that feels closer to home. This really hits home with the Ramadan vibe."
TikToker Yisra captures the essence of the experience: "The vibe is everyone's breaking their fast, sitting with their family, everyone is happy. You've got the guy that comes around and gives you coffee. There's excitement, you have all these lights. It's peaceful, you know - it's Lakemba."
Despite political tensions and security concerns, the Lakemba Ramadan night markets continue to serve as a powerful demonstration of community resilience, cultural pride, and the unifying power of shared celebration.
