LMRC Birmingham

MEND’s LMRC in Birmingham (18^st June 2019) this year was a resounding success packed with exciting but equally informative lectures from, Sheikh Yasir Qadhi, Comedian Tez Ilyas, former Respect MP Salma Yaqoob, American activist Muslim Linda Sarsour and As Suffa’s Founder Sheikh Zahir Mahmood addressing the very real dangers and consequences of Islamophobia.

The key message was unambiguously, ‘how can we as a community move forward to combat the causes of Islamophobia?’

Captured neatly with clear facts and figures, while not compromising on the need for spiritual adherence, speakers called out for drawing strength from the legacy of Islam; working within the political system to strengthen our unity; rejecting labels and reclaiming our narrative.

As well as encouraging positive engagement with the wider community, speakers promoted embracing the challenges we experience as a targeted minority by devoting “effort and time” (Salma Yaqoob 2019) then, will there be a greater chance of defeating Islamophobia.

Attendees left with messages of inspiration and motivation, gaining knowledge on how supporting MEND will enable and effect change.

“We have no choice but to be political as political means are being used to strip away our very own rights and deen” (Linda Sarsour 2019).

Contact your local MEND office to see what you can do to support.