Redditch mosque to 'tackle misconceptions' after third attack

The Redditch Standard last week reported news of open days to be hosted at Redditch mosque to ‘tackle misconceptions of Islam’, after swastikas and racist graffiti were daubed on its walls in an act of religiously aggravated criminal damage.

The Jinnah Road mosque, which is still under construction, was attacked again recently by vandals who sprayed swastikas and the initials ‘EDL’, ‘KKK’, and ‘NF’  all over the windows and walls.

In response to this incident, and following similar attacks in June 2011 and an attempted arson attack in January 2012, the mosque has decided to open its doors to the general public and encourage local people to visit it.

Due to partly open at the end of the year, Rafaqat Hussain, chairman of the management committee said “there are a lot of misconceptions that need correcting. [This mosque] will be a purpose built building for the community and people are welcome to come down and see what happens here and ask any questions. This will be part of the area and hopefully will help to unite the community.”

Mohammed Bashir one of the trustees added: “This will be a gift to the people of Redditch and future generations and it doesn’t matter if you are black, white, Asian, Indian or African, anybody is welcome.”