Pointed at and stereotyped, at the same time as being accused of not integrating in British society. This is the climate of hostility that has been created towards this community, which is provoking hate-crimes and strengthening fascist groups. (The Prisma Memoirs)
Virginia Moreno Molina
They make up 5% of the population in the UK, and during the last 10 years, the number of Muslims living in England and Wales has doubled.
But despite them being a significant group in Great Britain, the government deals with this group by making them the focus of interest and creating the prevention strategy that David Cameron has initiated as an anti-terrorist response aimed at stopping radicalization. “Islamophobia is leading to a weakening of civil liberties”, points out Denis Fernando, a spokesperson for Stand Up to Racism. He adds that “extreme right-wing and fascist groups are trying to use hatred of Muslim communities for their own ends”.
This group has organized demonstrations of thousands of people in support of refugees and the Muslim community in general.
Faced with this situation he is calling for “important social, cultural and economic support for all these communities, as a means of educating the population about the role that they play in the achievements of British society”.
As examples, he mentions the names of sports champions Amir Khan, Mo Farah and Nadia Hussein, the winner of the British Bake Off competition. Denis Fernando spoke to The Prisma.
In what ways are Muslims discriminated against in Britain?
Islamophobia is taking many forms at the current time – from the horrific murders of older people in recent years, to the violence against Muslim women who wear the veil. Pronouncements from government which have resulted in Muslim women being singled out for needing to speak English, at a time when English speaking language courses are being cut, and being labelled ‘Traditionally Submissive’ can only contribute to a climate of hostility.
Have anti-terrorism measures impacted on the lives of Muslims?
Yes, the Prevent agenda in education has been criticized by the government’s own terror watchdog, for encouraging a “significant source of grievance” among British Muslims, and “encouraging mistrust to spread and to fester”
There are now second and third generation-British Muslims, how does this situation affect them?
The rise of Islamophobia means that young people are facing disproportionate stop and search, suspicion and hostility in education and being tarnished with stereotypes, whilst simultaneously being accused of not integrating into society.
Muslims have often been accused of trying to impose their culture on the host country. Are they doing this?
The victories of Amir Khan and Mo Farah in the Olympics, and Nadia Hussain in the British Bake Off are examples of how the British Muslim community has contributed to British society. This is despite the discrimination that Muslim communities face. We believe that all cultures and religions are free to express themselves, as long as they don’t impinge on the rights of others. This is what has made Britain a successful diverse and multicultural society.
Are European countries discriminating against Muslims when they ban certain types of dress or preventing public prayers?
This is a huge problem. It started with banning the veil in some European countries, but this has spread to other religious symbols also being treated with hostility such as the turban and the skull cap. Islamophobia is leading to an undermining of civil liberties.
David Cameron also supports the ban on Muslim veils in schools. Is this a discrimination against Muslim women?
Yes. Women should be free to wear what they choose. This ban is in keeping with a worrying trend in Europe which has seen the rise of fa-r right and fascist groups which seek to utilize hatred against Muslim communities and others for their own ends.
Is there a need for better political representation for this community?
Yes, increased participation in elections and the political system is the way forward for countering disaffection amongst any oppressed group.
But it would be wrong to simply say that this is the responsibility of the Muslim community.
Opportunities for engagement need to be made, and a climate created where the political process and those in power are not associated with hostile statements against the Muslim community.
So, what should they do?
The impetus needs to come from those with power to encourage the Muslim community which is facing discrimination.
Are there truly equal opportunities for Muslims in the UK?
No, the Prevent agenda is creating a massive problem in education, and Islamophobia impacts on the life chances of the Muslim community in many spheres including employment.
The general public only focuses on this community if a terrorist event occurs, is there any support for their integration into British society?
Big cities like London show huge support for diversity, which is prized as a strength. It is important to highlight the social, cultural and economic contribution of all communities as a means of educating people about the role all communities play in the success of British society. (The Prisma Memoirs)
(Translated by Graham Douglas – Email: catalysistranslations@outlook.com) – Photos: Pixabay
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