After the Paris horror… Do not let the racists divide us. No to Islamophobia. Defend Civil Liberties.
Speakers:
Moazzam Begg, ex-Guantanamo Bay detainee
Malia Bouattia, National Black Officer, National Union of Students
Sufyan Ismail, founder, Muslim Engagement & Development (MEND)
Weyman Bennett, Stand Up to Racism
Map: https://goo.gl/maps/
Newham Stand Up to Racism and Newham MEND (Muslim engagement and Development) organised this meeting as part of Islamophobia Awareness Month.
We believe that after the horror in Paris, this meeting is as important as ever. First, our sympathies go out to the victims in Paris, to their families and friends.
But it is vital now that we do not let racism divide our communities. In the Muslim community there is genuine fear and apprehension of a backlash, of being seen once again as suspect.
Such fears are not without reason.
Over the last year Islamophobic attacks in London have risen by 70%. Over 90% of press coverage relating to Muslims and Islam is negative. Some 61% of Britons now believe Islam is incompatible with British culture; 44% believe there are too many Muslims in the UK.
Government ‘counter extremism’ legislation has fuelled this prejudice and threatens the civi liberties of us all. It does nothing to address the real roots of terror. There is a real danger now that further draconian legislation will be rushed through that targets Muslims and attacks legitimate free expression.
The East End has a proud tradition of uniting against prejudice, racism and attacks on liberty. We need to stand together now and not allow our community to be divided. After Paris, even more than ever.
