In keeping with the Club’s commitment to diversity, Richmond is pleased to announce a collaborative partnership with the Islamic Museum of Australia (IMA).
The Club and the IMA will work together for at least the next three years by using the power of sport to promote understanding and inclusion.
“This is an important partnership not only for our football club but the broader community,” said Richmond CEO Brendon Gale.
“We hope it will create social inclusion outcomes and we are invested in using the power of sport to deliver those outcomes.
“The Club is proud of the work Bachar Houli does within the Islamic community and we look forward to watching his programs grow further as a result of this new partnership.
Richmond will support the IMA Community Week and annual gala dinner, and provide match day opportunities for Islamic youth.
IMA will support the Bachar Houli Academy, provide cultural immersion opportunities for players and staff, and offer free access to Richmond members during the month of Ramadan.
Ramadan is a time of fasting for the Islamic people. Each day during this month, Muslims all over the world abstain from eating, drinking, smoking, as well as participating in anything that is ill-natured or excessive; from dawn until the sun sets. Fasting is intended to educate the Muslim in spirituality, humility and patience.
Houli has loaned his grand final playing jumper, football boots and premiership medal to the Museum, and hoped Richmond members and supporters would embrace the new partnership.
“It’s very special and it means so much to me and the wider Muslim community,” Houli said.
“It’s a time where those who are Richmond supporters get the opportunity to go and visit the Islamic Museum. And on top of that, the Museum has offered for those who hold Richmond memberships free entry for the month of Ramadan.
“It’s a good opportunity to go out, have a look at the museum, have a look at Australian Muslim history and you might be able to get a peek of someone who has contributed to Australian history.”
Chairman of the Islamic Museum of Australia, Hass Dellal, was pleased to announce the partnership.
“For many years now we have seen Richmond embrace Bachar and the Muslim community, particularly through the support of the Bachar Houli Academy and Islamic Schools Football Cup,” Dellal said.
“This partnership with the Islamic Museum of Australia further demonstrates the Club’s commitment to inclusion and diversity not only through sports but also the arts.
“Bachar has the unique ability to connect Australian Muslims with the broader football community, and further strengthen social cohesion. We are excited about this partnership with Richmond that will support positive outcomes for Richmond and the Muslim community.”
For more information on the Islamic Museum of Australia, located in Thornbury, click here.
