Meeting for Sufferings: Muslims in Britain
Islamophobia was discussed at Meeting for Sufferings
A brief written introduction was given on the subject of Muslims in Britain. Friends wishing to know more were encouraged to use resources such as the internet, local libraries or bookshops. They were also urged to speak to local Muslims.
Friends heard how Muslims account for a disproportionate number of people living in areas of multiple deprivation. The report also explained the meaning of ‘Islamophobia’. The term was coined in 1997 and includes ‘targeting, discrimination against or exclusion of a person or thing due to actual or perceived Muslim identity’. It also refers to ‘prejudice that promotes fear against Muslims and Islam’.
Sufferings was asked for examples of how Friends are strengthening the bonds of friendship with local Muslim communities.
A Friend said that there are few Muslim families near his Meeting, but stressed that it is a question of respect. He recounted how he had travelled extensively in the Islamic world, where he had met with nothing but love and friendship. He shared his concern that his view of Islam is being changed by the media.
Another Friend spoke of a visit to a local mosque, where the imam had spoken of his determination to distance his community from extremism and to stress that Islam is a peace-loving religion.
A third Friend described how her Meeting had sent messages of support to a local mosque and two neighbouring synagogues. This initiative was prompted by a message brought back from an earlier Meeting for Sufferings, she explained.
Another Friend emphasised the differences between Muslim groups. He suggested that our lack of awareness of these could hinder our best efforts at working with local communities. ‘I hope as Quakers we all feel committed to interfaith work,’ a Friend said.
‘Building bonds of friendship requires an emphasis on what unites us with our Muslim neighbours. As Friends, we should be inclusive in all of our activities, rather than making a special cause of Islamophobia.’
