Act Now, Islamophobia

Write to your local council, MP, and police commissioner to inquire about the measures in place for safeguarding your mosque, Islamic centre, or immigration centre.

6 August 2024

Contents

Summary

In light of recent attacks by far-right groups, it is important to ensure that local authorities are actively addressing threats to your places of worship or immigration centers.

Background

Over the past week, the country has experienced some of the worst riots in over a year. Racist mobs have been attacking mosques and immigration centers with impunity. They have made clear that they intend to continue these attacks targeting Muslims, immigrants and anyone they perceive as not being “English.” It is crucial to remain vigilant about personal safety and the safety of staff and clients.

Action Required

Contact your local council, police, and MP to inquire about the measures they are taking to ensure your safety and protect your community. Below is a model letter for guidance.

Please forward any responses to us at info@ihrc.org.

Model Letter

(Please customise the sections in red)

Dear [Sir/Madam]

**Subject: Recent Attacks on Muslim and Immigration Organisations in CITY/TOWN**

I am writing to express my extreme concern regarding the recent riots and attacks by far-right extremists across parts of the UK. These attacks seem to be spreading, with plans by the organisers to include locations across the country. As a [Please pick one: Islamic centre/mosque/immigration centre] we are extremely concerned for the safety and wellbeing of our staff, worshippers, clients and our premises. As you know, such places have been frequent targets of Islamophobic and Xenophobic attacks, which have escalated in the past week.

These attacks are motivated by racism and xenophobia. We are very concerned that the racist riots and plans to attack organisations that serve Muslims or immigrants means we will also become a target of violent protests, harassment and intimidation by protestors who would not hesitate to endanger our staff, worshippers, clients and our premises.

I would like to know if you have conducted any risk assessments in response to these recent attacks and what measures you are implementing to ensure the safety and security of our organisation and service users.

Yours faithfully,

[Your name]