Dublin, Ireland – Aug 5, 2024 – The Irish Muslim Peace and Integration Council is deeply saddened by the recent wave of violence and attacks targeting Muslim-owned businesses in Belfast and other cities in the North of Ireland. As an all-Ireland organisation dedicated to policy, advocacy, and bridge building, we strongly condemn these heinous acts of racism, Islamophobia, and violence.
We are deeply shocked and saddened by the recent knife attack on children in Southport, England. We extend our heartfelt condolences to the families, and everyone affected by this tragic incident. It is troubling to see how the far-right has used this incident to spread hatred and misinformation about Muslims. The attacker was wrongly identified by far-right individuals as a refugee Muslim but was later found to be a British-born 17-year-old Christian choir boy, Axel Rudakubana. Irrespective of the faith of the criminal, it is unacceptable to blame the entire faith community for the actions of one individual.
The ongoing riots and rise of far-right extremism fuelled by disinformation and misleading information have led to a dangerous climate where minorities, refugees, immigrants, and specifically Muslims are being targeted and marginalised. It is disheartening to witness how these hateful actions have made Muslims, and many people of colour feel unsafe in their own communities. Families who have invested their hard work into their businesses are now suffering unjustly at the hands of ignorance and hatred.
We call upon the law enforcement agencies to take a strong stand against the threat of far-right extremism and to ensure the safety and protection of all communities, including Muslims, refugees, and immigrants.
In times like these, it is crucial for the larger society to come together in unity and solidarity. We must not allow these divisive acts to tear us apart but rather, we must strive towards bridge-building and understanding. We urge everyone to reject hatred and discrimination and embrace diversity and inclusion as the bedrock of a peaceful and harmonious society.
The Irish Muslim Peace and Integration Council stands in solidarity with all those affected by the recent attacks and reaffirms our commitment to fostering peace, understanding, and integration across all communities in Ireland.
