Consensus on a common, practicable, definition of Islamophobia must be reached.
The London Assembly today agreed a motion to strongly support the principle of the definition that Islamophobia is a form of racism and that it must be challenged.
Navin Shah AM, who proposed the motion said:
“At a time of burgeoning political and social turmoil, it is vital that we come together as Londoners and stand firm against all forms of racism.
“We must always act swiftly and robustly to identify and root out hate wherever it rears its ugly head. The London Assembly’s decision to support the wider definition of Islamophobia marks our resolve to combat racism.
“We also commend the decision made by the Mayor of London and a number of local authorities in the capital to adopt the IHRA definition of anti-Semitism and the APPG on British Muslims’ working definition of Islamophobia.
“It is clear that with the rising tide of Islamophobia blighting and threatening to fragment our communities, there is a lot more work still to be done. It is imperative that we all play our part in sending a strong message that our capital will always reject messages of division, intolerance and stand up for equality, fairness and justice. “
The full text of the motion is:
This Assembly takes pride in its record of taking a strong and unequivocal stance against all forms of racism and injustice. Support of the IHRA definition of anti-Semitism is at the heart of such basic human values and so is support for the All Party Parliamentary Group on British Muslims’ working definition of Islamophobia. We are united in combating the evil of racism in whatever shape or form it raises its ugly head. This Assembly welcomes the decision taken by a number of Local Authorities and the Mayor of London to adopt the APPG’s working definition of Islamophobia.
We recognise the limitations of the current working definition and welcome a continued debate to arrive at a form of words that will provide a common understanding of Islamophobia. However, we strongly support the principle of the definition that Islamophobia is a form of racism and that it must be challenged. We call on the Mayor to continue contributing to the ongoing debate so that a consensus on a common, practicable, definition can be reached.
The noticeable rise of Islamophobia in our communities demands a strong response. This Assembly’s adoption of the definition sends a message that intolerance and hatred towards Muslims is wholly unacceptable in London, a city defined by its openness, diversity and respect for all.
Notes to editors
- Watch the full webcast
- The motion was agreed unanimously.
- Navin Shah AM, who proposed the motion, is available for interviews.
- As well as investigating issues that matter to Londoners, the London Assembly acts as a check and a balance on the Mayor.
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