Peacehaven and Manchester attacks show need to unite against racism
UK Friends of Standing Together condemns the recent arson attack at a mosque in Peacehaven.
Along with the antisemitic killings in Manchester on 2 October, and the wider context of rising far-right agitation against migrants and others, the attack shows how the threats of bigotry and racism remain acute.
[Click here to read our statement following the Manchester attacks.]
Standing Together fights in Israel for a just peace, based on equal rights for Israelis and Palestinians. We affirm the same values of equality and anti-racism in our own society, against antisemitism, Islamophobia, and all forms of bigotry.
The message below was sent to the London Islamic Cultural Society by activists in London Friends of Standing Together, who organise biweekly stalls at the mosque to raise awareness of Standing Together's work.
Dear Bibi and everyone at LICS,
We are deeply shocked and saddened to hear about the hate crime towards the mosque and its community in Peacehaven, and are relieved and grateful no-one was physically injured — although of course, the distress and fear will be massive.
We send our heartfelt love to you and the inspiring Muslim community at LICS and wider afield.
We hope the government quickly responds to this horrific attack, in order to prevent anything like it happening in the future and that it looks towards your pioneering work to build solidarity between communities as an example for us all.
We hope interfaith, human rights, and other activists and campaigners stand fast together to protect Muslims, Jews, and anyone targeted by racism or prejudice in these polarised times.
We hope the people of Peacehaven and other parts of the UK get the support and solidarity needed to pray safely at mosque. We stand united with you against hatred and violence.
We are proud to count ourselves one of the numerous partners you have nurtured in order to ensure there is mutual understanding and care in society. Our partnership with you is so important to us, and we will continue to fight with you against discrimination, oppression and division.