Barking and Dagenham Council, in partnership with local faith leaders, will be marking Islamophobia Awareness Month for the first time this November, standing in solidarity to combat Islamophobia and promote understanding within the community.
This year’s theme is "Seeds of Change", the month is dedicated to fostering inclusivity, building bridges, and raising awareness about the impact of Islamophobia.
Islamophobia is rooted in racism and is defined as a form of racism targeting expressions of Muslimness or perceived Muslimness. This month, aims to address these issues through events and initiatives designed to educate, change perceptions, and inspire unity.
The month’s activities will include a month long exhibition at the Barking Learning Centre, open to all residents. This exhibition will be a space for learning, where residents can engage with displays that showcase the diversity, history, and contributions of Islamic culture. Through curated exhibits, the community will have the opportunity to deepen their understanding and build empathy across cultural divides.
In addition, a closed event, titled the "Seeds of Change" Islamophobia Awareness Event, will be held at the Barking Learning Centre on 29 November. This gathering will bring together community leaders, educators, and residents to engage in meaningful dialogue and create a space for open conversations around Islamophobia. Featuring interactive stalls, the event will highlight various aspects of Islamic culture and history, providing an arena for dispelling stereotypes, challenging misconceptions, and building mutual respect.
Councillor Saima Ashraf, Deputy Leader of the Council and Cabinet Member for Community Leadership and Engagement, emphasised the Council’s commitment to fostering inclusivity: “Marking Islamophobia Awareness Month is crucial for fostering understanding, unity, and respect within our community. It is a time to reflect on the challenges faced by Muslims and to reaffirm our commitment to combating prejudice and discrimination.
“By raising awareness and promoting inclusivity, we can build a more compassionate and cohesive society where everyone feels valued and welcome. And it’s those traits that make Barking and Dagenham a place that welcomes all.”
Ash Siddique, from Al Madina mosque said: “Our relationships, friendships, and our communities are built on understanding and tolerance. Respecting each other's values and beliefs helps us understand and accept our differences.
Islamophobia Awareness Month highlights what can go wrong when we fail to adhere to these values and aptly highlights world events over the last year, particularly in Palestine and now the wider middle East
I hope the month will be a significant step in helping us all confront prejudice whilst promoting compassion, helps us deepen our understanding and connections within our communities and helps overcome those who seek to divide us and in so becoming stronger and united together.”
Barking and Dagenham Council encourages all residents to take part in Islamophobia Awareness Month, to attend the exhibition, and to join the journey towards creating a more inclusive and united community.