Police Create New Campaign to Tackle Hatred
Communities across London are being urged to unite this weekend in a demonstration against hatred and intolerance.
London’s We Stand Together campaign is being launched at the London Central Mosque, Regent’s Park, Westminster, on Sunday, 8 March, as part of a national move to celebrate diversity and to help build a stronger and safer UK.
It follows increased concern in some communities in the Capital and elsewhere in the UK, resulting from the terrorist attacks in Paris, Belgium and Copenhagen.
Communities and faith groups from across the Capital are being invited to attend the multi-faith event where they will be urged to sign a pledge of solidarity, highlighting there’s strength in diversity and the positive contributions it makes to the UK.
Following the launch, local events will be held across London where a range of community representatives will “stand together” and will not be divided by terrorism or hate crime.
The campaign will build upon the strong bonds that exist between communities within neighbourhoods and together will celebrate difference and diversity and drive out all forms of hatred and extremism.
People are also being encouraged to back the campaign by #WeStandTogether.
Chief Rabbi Ephraim Mirvis said, “The Jewish community stands at one with all participants in the We Stand Together campaign against hatred and intolerance. We abhor all faith and race related hatred and crime. Through celebrating diversity we can help build a more tolerant, stronger and more secure UK.”
Dr Ahmad Al Dubayan, Director General of The Islamic Cultural Centre & The London Central Mosque Trust, said, ‘‘Under present circumstances of increased tension it is very important to show solidarity in society and unity among all faiths against any idea which spreads fear, terror and creates division amongst people. Let us be united and reject the incitement of hatred being spread among people. We stand united in preserving our heritage, our civilization in our united declaration that life is sacred irrespective of creed, faith, race or colour of skin. Let us be united in our pronouncement of rejecting evil, division and animosity and appreciate the values of our life and common heritage on this beautiful planet.’’
Commander Mak Chishty, the community engagement lead for the Metropolitan Police Service, said, “London is the most diverse city in the world with communities living and working side by side, demonstrating mutual respect, trust and care for one another every day. We are making a statement to those who seek to drive us apart that we are strong and united and that our differences are something we celebrate and cherish.
“An attack on one community is an attack on the whole community. We will stand together to denounce race and faith hatred in all its forms.”
