The work never stops at Edinburgh University

We updated you all at the end of last year about the outstanding engagement from Edinburgh University during Islamophobia Awareness Month (IAM). But the work has not stopped there and the University has continued to look for ways that it can improve in tackling Islamophobia in all areas.

Please see the original blog here University of Edinburgh: From one small step many actions are taken – Muslim Engagement and Development (mend.org.uk)

What then, we ask, have they been doing in the very short few months since IAM? One of the biggest steps they have taken is that the Edinburgh Race Equality Network (EREN) for the University has picked up the gauntlet and moved the issue of Islamophobia and the need to tackle Islamophobia to a place of priority on their agenda.

So, what does this mean? It means the EREN is prioritising Islamophobia, throughout the year, the matter will hold a place in their meetings, starting last month with a presentation from the Chair of Edinburgh MEND working group.

At this presentation, attendees were talking through all aspects of Islamophobia with particular attention paid to the definition. In order that they could look at the EREN and University possibly in time adopting the APPG definition on Islamophobia.

Detailed definition: ‘An exaggerated, irrational fear, hatred and hostility towards Islam and Muslims perpetuated by negative stereotypes resulting in bias, discrimination and marginalisation of Muslims from civic, social, and political life.’ – Centre for American Progress as published in the ‘Fear Inc. 2.0’ report.

All-Party Parliamentary Group (APPG) is: ‘Islamophobia is rooted in racism and is a form of racism that targets expressions of Muslimness or perceived Muslimness.’

The University is looking at further ways to tackle Islamophobia with attention being paid to policy and reporting mechanisms for Hate crime and discrimination and MEND are exceptionally pleased to be able to offer support and guidance every step of the way.