This morning, February 25th, we were horrified to hear the news that last night (24th February) Manchester Central Mosque was targeted by an attempted attack. Two men had entered the mosque carrying weapons including an axe and a knife during Ramadan prayers. Thankfully, they were stopped and no one was hurt.
We know this news is especially frightening for our Muslim colleagues, friends and neighbours who should be able to worship in peace during the holy month of Ramadan and always. Instead they feel exposed and at risk.
This is sadly not an isolated incident but one part of a rise in anti-Muslim racism. Only a few days ago the far-right group Britain First organised a racist march through Manchester City Centre, leaving people of colour feeling unsafe and under attack. Their violence and hatred is always anti-migration and has always been directed at Muslims in particular. It is clear that racists are feeling emboldened at the moment, partly because of the rhetoric used by some politicians and amplified by the media.
Everyone must feel safe to gather and worship, and nobody should be threatened because of their religion or the colour of their skin or their immigration status. We as a community must come together to stand against hatred and keep each other safe where the state is failing us. GMIAU stands in solidarity with our Muslim communities today and always.