Napo is deeply saddened by the serious incident at Manchester Central Mosque on Tuesday evening, where a man carrying weapons entered the mosque during Ramadan prayers and was subsequently arrested. Thankfully no-one was hurt, but the fear and trauma experienced by worshippers at what should be a safe and sacred space is totally unacceptable.
This did not happen in isolation. Just days earlier, a Britain First march in Manchester drew far-right extremists chanting hostile anti-Muslim and anti-immigrant slogans, prompting counter-protests and multiple police arrests.
Napo is unequivocally against racism, fascism and all forms of discrimination and bigotry. We stand in solidarity with all who have been impacted by recent events, and with those who feel vulnerable in the face of rising hostility.
There is no place in our communities for hatred, Islamophobia, antisemitism, racism or violence, especially targeted at any religious building where people are gathering peacefully in prayer. People of all faiths must be able to worship, celebrate and live without fear.
This growing divide is the reason we are asking members to march with the Together Alliance in London on 28 March to say no to hate, racism and division. Join the thousands of others that are making it clear that unity, respect and solidarity are the values we choose.
