MIDLANDS IAM 2020: Muslim representation in literature

On Sunday 15th November, Midlands Regional Manager Robina (Ruby) Begum was invited to speak at an Instagram Live session with Ramisha Rafique to provide some context to Ramisha’s series on Muslim representation in literature. The session was a conversation around the definition of islamophobia and what this actually means for our communities, as well as what we can do as individuals and on a community level to combat islamophobia wherever we see it.

Both Ruby and Ramisha touched on the prevalence of islamophobia in our society, despite the lack of attention it receives from mainstream media or public figures. Ruby emphasised the importance of understanding the real definition and impact of islamophobia in the UK, from systemic discrimination and inequality to headline-grabbing hate crimes. Without understanding how islamophobia manifests in society and what its causes are, it is impossible to pursue an effective movement against it.

Both speakers did an excellent job of highlighting the many different ways that people can get involved in the fight against islamophobia, no matter your interests, skills or experience. Everyone has something to contribute and can affect change from where they are right now. It can be something as small as retweeting an informative post or having a difficult conversation with a colleague. These actions matter and they can have a big impact. Raising awareness and starting conversations are some of the most effective legwork of activism. So much of grassroots campaigning and community work is about small steps that add up to a bigger picture – no action is too small or unimportant.

MEND is a great place to start for people looking to learn more about islamophobia and what we can do to tackle it. There are many opportunities to volunteer your time and develop your skills in order to further the cause and make real change in your community as well as wider society. 

Learn more about how to get involved with MEND here: www.mend.org.uk/get-involved/ 

Catch up on this conversation here: https://www.instagram.com/tv/CHn1qOOhG3K/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link