Risking their Lives to Save Others
Started in 1999, the prestigious award had previously been given to just two other people ever since.
Eight more people on Thursday were also given other bravery awards for their roles in helping people during the shootings.
Commenting on the honors, Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern said each of the 10 people who were given awards put their lives at risk to save others.
“The courage demonstrated by these New Zealanders was selfless and extraordinary,” she said. “They have our deepest respect and gratitude for their actions on that day.”
Rashid’s widow Ambreen Naeem issued a statement saying her husband had always put others before himself.
“Naeem was a brave man, he was kind and loving. He was a true follower of the peaceful faith of Islam,” she said.
“This award is not only for him but for every peace-loving person who stands against hate. For all the victims, not only the victims of the Christchurch terror attack, but all over the world.”
A ceremony to honor the award winners will be held early next year.
Two years have passed since the grim massacre of 51 Muslims in New Zealand’s Christchurch which shook the worldwide.
Christchurch is the largest city in the South Island of New Zealand and the seat of the Canterbury Region.
It is also home to 404,500 residents, making it New Zealand’s 3rd most populous city behind Auckland and Wellington.
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