Ramadan night markets draw thousands to Lakemba despite Pauline Hanson's comment that people feel unwelcome

More than one million people attend Lakemba's month-long Ramadan night markets each year, and the event played out amid public comments by Pauline Hanson that people feel unwelcome in the suburb.

Ramadan night markets filled Haldon Street in Lakemba as people broke their fast and gathered around food stalls and lights. The month-long event attracts more than one million visitors annually, including both Muslim and non-Muslim attendees. Vendors and visitors described a warm, communal atmosphere rooted in cultural tradition. The story has drawn attention after public comments by Pauline Hanson saying people feel unwelcome in the suburb. Key points: - More than one million people attend the month-long Lakemba Ramadan night markets each year. - Stalls along Haldon Street offered a wide range of foods and drew crowds as people broke the fast. - Local residents and leaders criticised Pauline Hanson after her comments that people feel unwelcome in Lakemba. - The local mosque reported a series of threats in the past month, including a call to harm worshippers that came days after Hanson’s comments. - Australia's race discrimination commissioner called on Hanson to apologise, and the local mayor referenced hate speech laws. Summary: The markets showcased cultural exchange, strong public attendance, and a sense of community while residents also noted recent threats and political comments affecting local feelings of safety. Undetermined at this time.