ANSWER LIES IN UNITY, NOT "TERRORISTS" OF THE FAR RIGHT

This letter appears in today's Leicester Mercury:

Answer lies in unity, not "terrorists" of the far right

Last month, we witnessed the brutal murder of a solider as he walked down a street near his home.

Within hours the word "terrorism" was being used to describe the attack and if it transpires this was indeed a politically or religiously-motivated murder then there would be considerable justification for using this term.

The aftermath of Lee Rigby's death also saw a rise in attacks on mosques and Muslims.

If "terrorism" is to be used so quickly to describe the actions of the Woolwich murderers, then surely this term equally applies to these attacks.

Elements of the far right, in their misguided defence of their concept of England, have sought to create fear among other communities – the very definition of terror.

The right-wing media is generally quick to use labels such as "hate preacher" for those few individuals advocating violence in the name of a particular religion, but, so far, most are reluctant to use the term to describe the leaders of the far right.

While the leaders of certain organisations may say they are encouraging peaceful protest, their words influence others to commit acts of violence.

It is not enough, though, to dismiss extremists of all shades as evil and to ignore the underlying issues which motivate their actions. To ignore them is to frustrate them to further acts of hatred.

As a socialist, I perceive these underlying causes in terms of class.Successive neo-liberal governments have sought to devastate the working class.

Some groups have been unfairly subjected to racism and discrimination while others have been completely ignored, or condemned as "workshy shirkers".

We have witnessed our industry disappear and our core values, such as solidarity, replaced with rampant individualism.

Now, especially during this economic crisis, we are all competing for an ever-decreasing slice of the pie.

It is no wonder working class communities turn on each other to compete for jobs, services, dignity and respect.

The answer, though, does not lie in looking to the far right: the answer lies in acknowledging what we all have in common, regardless of race, religion or country of origin.

It is in our shared interest not to fight each other but to fight against the injustices brought upon us by the elites of politics, banking and big business.

As a final point, it is to the credit of trade union, community and faith groups which have sought to heal the divisions in our society by taking steps to bring people together.

It is much more difficult to hate someone if you find you have something in common with them.

Matt Widdowson, Leicester

BLINK AND YOU'D MISS ME

The early evening edition of BBC East Midlands Today has a feature about the reaction of communities in the region to the Woolwich incident, one week on. It contains ten seconds of me from the footage filmed this morning by Luke Hanrahan in the Christians Aware office. It has me saying that nothing negative has happened in Leicester (probably the least interesting thing I said in the interview) which Political Editor John Hess contrasts with tensions in Nottingham.

CAUGHT ON CAMERA

Around 1100, I get a call from Luke Hanrahan, reporter at BBC East Midlands Today. He heard my spot on Jonathan Lampon's Radio Leicester breakfast show earlier today and asks if he can film some interview footage with me to be included in a short feature about East Midlands communities' reactions to the Woolwich incident, one week on.

A quick phone call to Cllr Manjula Sood, Chair of Leicester Council of Faiths, for the all-clear and half an hour later, Luke has set up his camera in the meeting room upstairs at Christians Aware, Saxby Street. We record a few minutes of me speaking about things in Leicester, some of which should be included in the early evening bulletin.

IT IS TIME FOR ACTION BY MUSLIM LEADERS

This letter appears in today's Leicester Mercury:

It is time for action by Muslim leaders

I write in response to Suleman Nagdi's First Person article ("Religion can't be defence for brutal killings", May 24).

My response is not that of a politician, religious expert or supporter of any right-wing organisation. My response is that of a working class man appalled by the atrocity committed in Woolwich.

I support Mr Nagdi's response and the sentiments contained. I have no doubt Mr Nagdi's intentions are noble and that he wishes for peace and, as he puts it, that "the forces of hatred do not prevail".

Unfortunately, his sentiments are, I fear, not enough.

Until the attacks in London on July 7, 2005, the perceived threat to this country was from terrorists from outside the UK.

Since then, there has been a catalogue of arrests of individuals born and raised in the UK.

Irfan Naseer, Irfan Khalid and Ashik Ali were jailed in April for plotting terrorist bomb attacks.

Next month, six men will be sentenced for preparing acts of terrorism. Richard Dart, Jahangir Alom and Imran Mahmood are also awaiting sentencing for terror-related offences. All were born in the UK.

Mr Nagdi calls for "solidarity" and states Muslims "have been distressed by the fact they are being made to defend themselves".

I agree the actions of a small minority should not influence the majority and the residents of this country should be able to live in peace.

However, what Mr Nagdi has failed to address is the fear and distress many people in this country have as a result of the events and arrests I have referred to.

Muslim leaders need to show positive action to demonstrate they are doing all they can to combat the extremists that use the name of Allah.

I have seen no evidence of positive, tangible action by Muslim leaders.

Community work, recognition of diversity and inter-faith groups are noble and praiseworthy, but what of the people not included in these?

What of the ordinary people who are afraid?

For every Stephen Lennon there is an Anjem Choudary, for every Nick Clegg an Abu Qatada and for every terrorist there is a right-wing fanatic.

I encourage Mr Nagdi to show those in fear they have nothing to fear and those who doubt Islam that their doubts are unfounded.

In an article published by the BBC, Dr Usama Hasan said: "In our times, we need non-violent jihads; social struggles against all forms of inequality and oppression, and for justice and liberation."

Perhaps now is the time for Mr Nagdi and other Muslim leaders to embark upon their own non-violent jihad against those Muslims who use their faith to justify the murder of innocent people.

David Gibbs, Scraptoft

LEICESTERSHIRE POLICE UPDATE, 27 MAY 2013

Dear George

We are pleased to be able to say that there continue to be no incidents in Leicester, Leicestershire or Rutland directly connected to last week’s murder of a soldier in Woolwich.

However, yesterday evening (Sunday May 26) there was an altercation in Bede Park. There had been a football match between white, black and Asian youths, which ended with one person being assaulted. There may have been racist comments made, although we are still trying to confirm this and a thorough investigation is taking place into what happened. Dedicated patrols in and around the park have been put in place today to reassure the community and prevent any further related incidents.

We are also aware of a number of rumours circulating on social media in relation to racially-aggravated assaults and attacks on children by extreme right wing groups. These have no basis in truth. We would ask everyone to ignore these rumours and not to take actions in to their own hands; if you have genuine concerns or information, please contact us on 101.

There will be a further update tomorrow (Tuesday), which is likely to be the last unless the situation changes significantly.

Rob Nixon, Chief Superintendent, Leicester City BCU

LEICESTERSHIRE POLICE UPDATE, 26 MAY 2013

Dear George Ballentyne,

On the fourth day following the events in Woolwich we are very pleased to tell you that there have been no local incidents which may be related to the tragic death of Drummer Lee Rigby. 

It’s reassuring to report that the people of Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland remain calm and there has been no significant incident or activity since our last update.  It really is an indication of how strong our community relations are.

You may be aware that there was a gathering in Leicester yesterday by the Clock Tower by approximately fifty people who walked to the memorial at the Town Hall to pay their respects to the fallen soldier. This was a very low key and peaceful event.

Local officers are still working in their neighborhoods across the bank holiday weekend, linking in with faith groups and partners, listening to concerns of our communities and to give reassurance. 

There is still no intelligence to suggest there will be a negative reaction locally to events in London but we will continue to monitor this and will update you of any developments. Similarly, if anyone in your community has any information and concerns they can help us in our efforts by calling 101.

Once again, thank you for your help and assistance over the past few days. The people of Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland are very proud of the excellent community relations and the respect we have for different cultures, communities and religious beliefs and the vast majority clearly want this to continue.

Rob Nixon

Chief Superintendent

Leicester City BCU Commander

LEICESTERSHIRE POLICE UPDATE, 25 MAY 2013

Dear George

As a trusted partner we feel it is important to keep you updated this morning with regards to any local incidents which may be related to events in Woolwich.

It’s reassuring to report that, three days after the tragic events in London, the people of Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland remain calm and there has been no significant incident or activity since our last update. 

Local officers will continue their work in their neighbourhoods across the bank holiday weekend, linking in with faith groups and partners, listening to concerns of our communities and to give reassurance.   

There is still no intelligence to suggest there will be a negative reaction locally to events in London but we will continue to monitor this and will update you of any developments. Similarly, if anyone in your community has any information and concerns they can help us in our efforts by calling 101. 

It was great to welcome the Archbishop of Canterbury, the Most Rev. Justin Welby, to Leicester yesterday and hear him and Shaykh Ibrahim Mogra, the assistant secretary general of the Muslim Council of Britain, calling for unity. It seems that the people of Leicester support that message too. 

Once again, thank you for your help and assistance over the past few days. The people of Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland are very proud of the excellent community relations and the respect we have for different cultures, communities and religious beliefs and the vast majority clearly want this to continue.

Rob Nixon

Chief Superintendent

Leicester City BCU Commander

ARCHBISHOP & IMAM ISSUE APPEAL FOR UNITY

This article appears in today's Leicester Mercury:

Archbishop and Imam issue appeal for unity

by Dan Martin

The Archbishop of Canterbury today stressed the need for unity among Leicester’s religious communities in the aftermath of the brutal killing of a soldier in a suspected terrorist attack.

The Most Rev Justin Welby, the Church of England’s most senior clergyman, said the killing of Drummer Lee Rigby in Woolwich by two apparent Muslim extremists had “no place in Islam.”

The archbishop spoke about the young soldier’s murder outside the Masjid Umar mosque, in Evington, after rearranging his schedule in a visit to Leicester, planned before Wednesday’s horrific events.He met officials from the mosque, along with the bishops of Woolwich, Bradford and Pontefract as well as Bishop of Leicester Tim Stevens.

he archbishop stood side-by-side with assistant secretary general of the Muslim Council of Britain Ibrahim Mogra to address reporters follwing events in the capital.

The archbishop said: “We have all been horrified by the brutal murder of drummer Lee Rigby in Woolwich and all of our prayers are with his family, colleagues and comrades, all those who witnessed this crime and members of the community who have been affected by it.

“I want to recognise the response of churches, mosques and other faith and civil society groups, as well as those brave individuals who have done so much to bring our communities together at this time.”

The archbishop, who later signed a book of condolence opened for the murdered 25-year-old at Leicester Cathedral, added: “The strong response from the Muslim Council of Britain and many other organisations have rightly emphasised that these acts have no place in Islam.”

He added: “I think Leicester is a shining example of how communities work together. I am confident because of the very good work Ibrahim (Mogra) has been doing, and we are all doing, that we are in a good position.”

Mr Mogra said: “Muslim communities in Britain are shocked and appalled by the horrific murder in Woolwich.

“The murderers chanted slogans during their heinous crime claiming to do it in God’s name.

“Far from it.

“This is a betrayal of Islam.

“This is a truly barbaric act that has no basis in Islam and we condemn it utterly and unreservedly.

“Our thoughts and prayers are with Lee Rigby’s family and friends and especially his two-year-old son.

“Drummer Rigby was a serving member of the armed forces.

“Muslims have long served in this country’s armed forces proudly and with honour.

“This attack on a member of the armed forces is dishonourable and no cause can justify this murder.

“This crime has heightened tensions across the country. The MCB calls on all our communities, Muslim and non-Muslim to come together in solidarity to ensure the forces of hatred do not prevail.

“I am immensely grateful for the leadership of our archbishop during this most difficult time and thank leaders of all our faith communities for your support.

“Your local Muslim communities will welcome your support and I encourage you to knock at the doors of every mosque and offer you neighbourly love.

He added: “There is concern about safety in large sections of Muslim communities who live in mixed areas.

“We hope that the police will ensure law and order is maintained.

“We say to the Muslim community: “Let us continue with our lives as normal.

“If we begin to cower and hide ourselves away then we allow the terrorists win. Life must go on.”

Bishop Tim said: “I hope what is clear is that this terrible incident, from driving a wedge between us will bring us closer together.”

Hundreds of worshippers gathered at the mosque for Friday payers and heard Imam Muhammad Sindhi condemn Wednesday’s tragedy.

He said: “Don’t be extremists. In Islam there is no space for terror or terrorism.

“Islam doesn’t teach, in broad daylight, to go out into the streets of London wielding a butcher’s cleaver and hack someone to death.

“This Stone Age savagery is not the message of Islam.”

MUSLIMS SHOCKED BY HATE KILLING

There are four of these blue boxes around the city centre, housing vendors of the Leicester Mercury. This one is at the top of Gallowtree Gate, near British Home Stores. Each of the blue boxes had this headline poster on it. I think this was a good thing to say in public and I  wanted to record it.

LEICESTERSHIRE POLICE UPDATE, 24 MAY 2013

Dear George

As a trusted partner we felt it important to give you a quick update this morning with regards to any local incidents which may be related to events in Woolwich.

It’s reassuring to report that the people of Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland remained calm and there has been no incident or activity since our last update.

We did arrest a 42-year-old man yesterday for possession of an offensive weapon after he was seen in Wordsworth Road in the Welford Road area of Leicester with a large knife. However, we must stress that this was an isolated incident and in no way connected to domestic extremism. If you are approached by anyone in your community about this incident today please reassure them that this man is in custody and there are no extremist links.

Local officers will continue their work in their neighbourhoods, linking in with faith groups and partners, listening to concerns of our communities and to give reassurance. 

There is still no intelligence to suggest there will be a negative reaction to events in London but we will continue to monitor this and will update you of any developments. Similarly, if anyone in your community has any information and concerns they can help us in our efforts by calling 101.

Once again, thank you for your help and assistance over the past few days. The people of Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland are very proud of the excellent community relations and the respect we have for different cultures, communities and religious beliefs and the vast majority clearly want this to continue.

Rob Nixon

Chief Superintendent
Leicester City BCU Commander

BISHOP OF LEICESTER STATEMENT RE WOOLWICH INCIDENT

As you can imagine, faithful reader, many comments and statements will be made regarding events in Woolwich, Wednesday 22 May 2013. I'm posting a selection of these on the blog, limited to relevant organisations with which Leicester Council of Faiths is involved to some extent. Below is a statement issued today by the Bishop of Leicester:

The Bishop of Leicester, Rt Rev Tim Stevens, has called on communities to remain calm following the horrific murder in Woolwich, London on Wednesday afternoon.

The Bishop said, "I am deeply distressed by reports of this barbaric attack which took place in front of passers-by in a street in South London. It has been confirmed that the victim was a serving soldier and the Prime Minister has said that there were "strong indications that it is a terrorist attack". The police now need to be allowed to do their job and ascertain the facts behind what took place.

"Individuals who commit such crimes in the name of religion or politics stand at odds with the compassionate shared values which we stand for as a society. Such acts aim to divide our communities and I call upon everyone to remain calm and united. At this deeply tragic time, my prayers and thoughts are for the victim and those who knew him, but also those many ordinary people traumatised by this shocking and wholly unjustified event".

BRITISH HINDU VOICE STATEMENT RE WOOLWICH INCIDENT

As you can imagine, faithful reader, many comments and statements will be made regarding the incident in Woolwich, Wednesday 22 May 2013. I'm posting a selection of these on the blog, limited to relevant organisations with which Leicester Council of Faiths is involved to some extent. Below is a statement by British Hindu Voice ("a think tank and a single voice for the Hindu and Jain Communities in Leicester and Leicestershire") issued today in the name of the Chair, Mr Vinod Popat:

The British Hindu Voice (BHV) today condemned the murder of a serving British Officer. The Chair of BHV Vinod Popat stated “I am shocked by the news of the murder that happened in  broad daylight on a British street. The gruesome nature of the murder and the gloating that followed should be condemned in the strongest terms. Our thoughts and prayers are with the brave British soldier’s family”BHV urges calm at these difficult times. It is now known that the perpetrators were both Muslims and whilst we support the Islamic community in their efforts to distance from the individuals, the worry is that faiths and religion could be confused and innocent communities could be targeted. BHV will continue to work with other faiths in Leicestershire to ensure that the good harmony is maintained.

FIRST PERSON: RELIGION CAN'T BE DEFENCE FOR BRUTAL KILLINGS

Suleman Nagdi has written the First Person column in today's Leicester Mercury:

Religion can't be defence for brutal killings

Suleman Nagdi says the murder of a soldier on a London Street betrays all Muslims

The shocking murder which took place on Wednesday has left me appalled and angry. Appalled at the brutality and savageness of the murder of an innocent man and angry that this wanton act of violence is being labelled as "Islamic".

The Federation of Muslim Organisations (FMO) rightly condemned in the strongest terms possible what occurred. I concur with our Prime Minister when he said: "This was not just an attack on Britain. It was a betrayal of Islam and the Muslim communities who give so much to our country."

I must begin by expressing sympathy and condolences to the family of the dead soldier, who have lost their loved one as a result of inexplicable violence.

It is shocking that this tragedy happened in broad daylight.

Eyewitness accounts describe the depth of psychotic callousness with which the killers acted – killers whose motives are irrelevant, as the crime itself demonstrates an extreme level of psychological disturbance.

I am numb and outraged that two people intent on violence have hijacked my faith to such an end. This is a complete distortion of the true meaning of Islam.

It betrays all Muslims who have peace and compassion in their hearts and particularly those in our Muslim communities across the UK who work for the security of our nation.

Such a brutal act of murder cannot be justified using religion as a defence. Islam places the highest value on life and safeguarding a single human life is tantamount to safeguarding all life.

It is truly distressing to see the extreme right opportunistically using this tragedy to spout their vicious racist hatred and sadder still to see that some people are responding to this incident by joining their extreme cause.

Most Muslims I have spoken to have been distressed by the fact they are being made to defend themselves when the deranged killings have nothing to do with them or their religion.

The killers' motives are political and their methods are criminal.

The tensions felt by British Muslims will be exacerbated in the days to come by those who blame all Muslims for the actions of two psychotic men, who may happen to be Muslim.

As reports of two lone attacks on mosques in Britain are covered in the media, it is imperative that all of our communities, Muslim and non-Muslim, come together in solidarity to ensure the forces of hatred do not prevail.

It is important we allow our police authorities to do their job without speculation. We also urge the utmost vigilance and ask the police authorities to calm tensions and ensure this tragedy does not unfold into greater tragedy.

Suleman Nagdi is chairman of Leicestershire Faith Forum [sic] and spokesman for the Federation of Muslim Organisations.

MERCURY OPINION: TERRORISM MUST NEVER DIVIDE US

This is from the Mercury Opinion column in today's Leicester Mercury:

Terrorism must never divide us

It is a sad reflection of the turbulent times in which we live that Muslim leaders have had to swiftly put out public statements condemning the utterly horrific and barbaric murder of a soldier in London on Wednesday afternoon. They should not need to do so any more than any other group.

The people who carried out this atrocious attack are hopelessly deluded and misguided individuals and do not remotely reflect the values of the Muslim community.

However, Muslims have been so demonised over the past few years that an incident such as this fuels unwarranted suspicion and reprisals, as we have seen in London with attacks on mosques.

It is in this febrile atmosphere that Muslim leaders have had to react quickly to make it clear that the actions of the killers are condemned by the Islamic community and do not represent its values and beliefs.

Apparently, the killers chanted the name of Allah during their vile attack. People who have committed atrocities throughout history have proclaimed religious faith, as though their appalling actions have some sort of divine sanction. In reality, they are simply using the name of a faith to try to justify their own crimes. Their behaviour bears no relation to the teachings of the religions they proclaim.

Defeating terrorism is not just the work of the police and security services but wider society, too. It is about being united and showing the terrorists that people in this country stand shoulder-to-shoulder with one another in the name of peace whatever their faith and background. Those who demonise Muslims or attack mosques are just continuing the division and discord that the terrorists seek.

The reality is that terrorists have nothing to do with any of us. They are people who exist on the margins of society wrapped up in their own hate-filled views. They are not part of any religion or group or community. They are isolated individuals in a hell of their own making.

Finally, let's not lose sight of what matters most here; the dreadful death of a young man in the most barbaric way imaginable. Our hearts go out to his loved ones. We cannot imagine the pain they are going through. Our sympathies seem inadequate in the face of this horror but they are all we have to give.

LEICESTER'S MUSLIM LEADERS CONDEMN WOOLWICH SOLDIER KILLING

This article appears in today's Leicester Mercury:

Sheikh Ibrahim Moghra

Leicester's Muslim Leaders condemn Woolwich soldier killing

by Dan Martin

Muslim leaders in Leicester have condemned the murder of a soldier in London yesterday in a suspected terrorist attack.

The serviceman was killed in the street near army barracks in Woolwich yesterday afternoon.

Shocked passers-by then took video footage of the two suspected culprits - one of whom said the victim had been attacked because British troops had killed Muslims everyday.

Witnesses reported the soldier was hacked to death after being run over. The suspected attackers were then shot and injured by police before being taken to hospital.

Today religious leaders in Leicester stressed the incident was in no way representative of Muslims here.

Ibrahim Mogra, imam at three city mosques and the assistant secretary general of the Muslim Council of Britain said: “We are shocked at this killing as is every decent human being. It was an appalling killing on our streets in broad daylight.

“One of the culprits claims to have done it in the name of God and Islam. Absolutely not. How dare he use the name of God to try to justify this terrible act. There is nothing in Islam that justifies vigilantism.”

Mr Mogra urged people to remain calm in the aftermath of the killing.He said: “We must allow the authorities to carry out their investigation.

“We should be vigilant against those who would use this awful act to try to divide the community. We cannot allow hate-filled people from any side to drive a wedge between us.

“It must be clear that the vast majority of Muslims stand side by side with all other communities in condemning this brutal killing.”

THe Federation of Muslim Organisations (FMO) has also condemned the killing in “the strongest terms possible.”

Leicester-based FMO spokesman Suleman Nagdi said "This is a most truly appalling crime.

“Reports about the graphic nature of the incident with the use of a machete to commit murder in full public view, makes this case even more reprehensible. As the situation unfolds, our thoughts are with the family of the victim.

Mr Nagdi added: “The FMO condemns violence for whichever cause in all its hideous guises and it is our sincere hope that the perpetrators of this horrendous crime are brought to justice.

“Muslims historically through the first and second World Wars have contributed greatly to the defence of our country.

“I appeal for all communities to remain calm in the face of this attack and not to allow this evil crime to divide communities in our country.”

The Bishop of Leicester, Rt Rev Tim Stevens, has also called on communities to remain calm following the murder.

He said: “I am deeply distressed by reports of this barbaric attack which took place in front of passers-by in a street in South London.

“It has been confirmed that the victim was a serving soldier and the Prime Minister has said that there were "strong indications that it is a terrorist attack".

“The police now need to be allowed to do their job and ascertain the facts behind what took place.

“Individuals who commit such crimes in the name of religion or politics stand at odds with the compassionate shared values which we stand for as a society.

“Such acts aim to divide our communities and I call upon everyone to remain calm and united.

“At this deeply tragic time, my prayers and thoughts are for the victim and those who knew him, but also those many ordinary people traumatised by this shocking and wholly unjustified event.”

FAITHS UNITED AFTER ACTROCITY

This is (part of) the front page of today's Leicester Mercury. I don't usually comment on articles or readers' letters in the Mercury, but I'm making an exception this time.

Well, this is the kind of headline I like to see, as I'm sure you can imagine, faithful reader. But the title of this short but prominent piece is hyperbolic - as is the first sentence, "People of different faiths stood shoulder to shoulder [...]" When you turn to the full article, it only refers to two faiths: Christianity and Islam. Even then, it's actually the Church of England and Islam. Only Sheikh Ibrahim Moghra, Suleman Nagdi and the Bishop of Leicester are quoted. Three important voices, who should be heard prominently in the city and beyond - but this is hardly comprehensive coverage of a matter that is of major interest and importance to everyone in Leicester who cares about the increasingly polarised debate on the influence of religion or belief on community relations. These three voices have no trouble being heard, because of their well-earned and richly deserved prominence in their respective communities and the place of their religions in the firmament of faiths. I certainly respect their opinions and want to know what they have to say and believe that the rest of the city should hear them too. But does the Mercury really think that the city's Bahá'ís, Buddhists, other kinds of Christians, Jains, Jews, Sikhs - and, for that matter, Secular Humanists - have nothing calming, illuminating or insightful to say about this?

Leicester Council of Faiths issued a brief statement to the Leicester Mercury (amongst other recipients) yesterday morning, but the paper has not used it, referred to it or contacted anyone involved with the Council of Faiths to contribute to any of its coverage of local responses to the incident in Woolwich. Considering our role in the public life of Leicester and our standing in the city, I think that's a pity.

INTER FAITH NETWORK UK STATEMENT RE WOOLWICH INCIDENT

As you can imagine, faithful reader, many comments and statements will be made regarding the incident in Woolwich, Wednesday 22 May 2013. I'm posting a selection of these on the blog, limited to relevant organisations with which Leicester Council of Faiths is involved to some extent. Below is a statement by the Inter Faith Network (UK) issued today in the names of the Co-Chairs:

We learned with deep shock and great sadness of the murder of a young member of the armed forces in Woolwich yesterday afternoon. Such acts of violence and terror have no place in our society.

Our thoughts and prayers are with the victim’s family.

The attackers linked their actions with the religion of Islam.  Statements from major national Muslim bodies have, in the ensuing hours, condemned the act in the strongest terms and stressed its lack of connection to – and complete contradiction of – teachings of Islam.   Even so, there have been attacks on two mosques over the course of the last 24 hours and concerns expressed about the possibility of further attack.

Our thoughts and prayers are also with any whose places of worship or personal safety are affected.

In the wake of this terrible attack, all who share a commitment to a peaceful, safe and just society have a vital role to play in strengthening community bonds and working for greater understanding and mutual support at times of difficulty.

Dr Manazir Ahsan MBE (Co-Chair)

The Revd Bob Fyffe (Co-Chair)

Dr Girdari Lal Bhan (Vice-Chair)

Mr Mohinder Singh Chana (Vice-Chair)

Mr Dorab Mistry (Vice-Chair)

Mr Vivian Wineman (Vice-Chair)

LEICESTERSHIRE INTERFAITH FORUM STATEMENT RE WOOLWICH INCIDENT

As you can imagine, faithful reader, many comments and statements will be made regarding the incident in Woolwich, Wednesday 22 May 2013. I'm posting a selection of these on the blog, limited to relevant organisations with which Leicester Council of Faiths is involved to some extent. Below is a statement by Leicestershire Interfaith Forum, issued today in the names of the Chair, Mr Suleman Nagdi, and Vice Chair, Mr Resham Singh Sandhu:

The Leicestershire Interfaith Forum join with people across the country and world in condemning in the strongest possible terms the atrocity that took place on the streets of Woolwich yesterday. The Forum also calls for calm and peace on the streets of our city and county and for people to remember the murdered victim and to offer thoughts and prayers to his family at this sad time.

The Chair of the Interfaith Forum, Mr Suleman Nagdi stated that he was "immensely saddened at the tragic curtailing of a life spent in service of this country". Mr Nagdi also stated the following: "I am truly shocked at the fact that this tragedy happened in daylight on a street in my country and to a fellow citizen. I am also numb and outraged that two people intent on violence have 'hijacked' my faith to such an end. This is a complete distortion of the true meaning of Islam. It betrays all Muslims who have peace and compassion in their hearts and particularly those in our Muslim communities across the UK who serve our nation in the armed forces and indeed in all areas of life".

The Vice-Chair of the Leicestershire Interfaith Forum, Mr Resham Singh Sandhu wholeheartedly endorsed Mr Nagdi's comments, calling for people of all faiths and none to ensure that the hatred behind the murder was not in any way reciprocated or continued in its aftermath.

Mr Nagdi and Mr Singh Sandhu were united in their conviction that peace and harmony must prevail, that people saw the true meaning of Islam and of all faiths as messages of peace, goodwill, cooperation and friendship across our communities. The Interfaith Forum stands as an embodiment of this commitment and will continue to work to bring people of all faiths and none together for the common good.

Mr Suleman Nagdi (Chair of the Leicestershire Interfaith Forum)Mr Resham Singh Sandhu (Vice Chair of the Leicestershire Interfaith Forum)

BBC RADIO LEICESTER: REACTION TO WOOLWICH

This morning I'm on BBC Radio Leicester, speaking live in the studio with Jonathan Lampon (photo above) just after 0800 about the Woolwich incident and its ramifications for community relations. Here's a transcript of the interview.

JL: Let’s turn our attention to our top story this morning – and Leicestershire Police says it has no cause to believe that there’s any increased threat to communities here, following the death of a soldier in a suspected terror attack in Woolwich. This morning it’s emerged that the two suspects were already known to MI5. Twenty-five year old army drummer Lee Rigby was killed by suspected Muslim extremists, wielding knives and a meat cleaver. Well Richard Barrat is the former head of Counter Terrorism at MI6; he says it’s impossible to keep a 24-hour watch on everyone who’s ever expressed radical views.

RB: First there’s a question of resources, but then also there’s a question of legality and beyond that I think there’s a whole question of values. I mean, what sort of society are we trying to protect? I don’t think there’s any way that the security service can sort of just close down the activity, put them all on security bracelets or bang them up or whatever of anybody who has expressed a radical view. That would be ridiculous; it would move us into a society that we don’t want to live in.

JL: Well police in Leicester are calling for calm and are working in neighbourhoods to reassure people. We spoke to members of the Muslim community here and some feel that Islam is once again taking the blame for this particular incident. [vox pop with two local Muslims]

JL: Well listening to that in the studio with me is George Ballentyne from the Leicester Council of Faiths. George, welcome to the programme.

GMB: Good morning.

JL: Just listening to that, do you think that this case in London is likely to cause tensions among communities?

GMB: Well I think it would be very naive to say that it wouldn’t. It just can’t help but cause some kind of tension. But of course the important thing is how that’s managed and I think that we can play a big role in making sure things don’t go out of proportion or escalate out of hand and I think that there are well-intentioned, strong-willed people who are helping to manage this so that the best possible outcome comes for everybody.

JL: Why are we in the situation though whereby we have to have an apology from Muslim Council of Britains within minutes of this attack happening? There’s a part of me that finds that finds it all rather distasteful. Because, of course, this is nothing to do with the Muslim community, of course this is nothing to do with religion. These are the case of two individuals – as far as we know that are mentally ill – you don’t do this unless you’re mentally ill. So Is there a bit of a knee-jerk reaction sometimes within communities, do you think?

GMB: Well, If you think about that phrase the “knee jerk reaction” – where it comes from  – that medical test where the doctor hits you on the cartilage under the knee with a little hammer and your leg pops – out that’s a test that something’s healthy and that your leg is functioning properly. something’s healthy and your leg is functioning properly and maybe the idea of making a speedy reaction as a way of trying to pour some oil on the troubled waters is actually a healthy and good thing to do. It would be good if it wasn’t necessary, of course it would be. But it’s also interesting that many people still call for these kind of response and call for statements even though they’re being made, as if they can’t actually see them or can’t hear them. So the fact that they have to be made at all – really, for many people they’re just not penetrating, not getting through to them for some reason.

JL: Again, I mean the clips that we heard there from some members of the Muslim community here in Leicester, they say, you know, that the incident is being blamed and laid at their door, what does the community need to do to (in other words) put off, or get rid of any potential copycat attacks or anything like that?

GMB: Copycat attacks are something that, from all the things I’ve been hearing, you cqn’t really predict them or defend against them – and people do some stupid things under these circumstances, but I think that the real way to try to get beyond this is – We all have a lived experience in Leicester of being with people who are from another faith another culture another ethnic background. I think it would be pretty hard to find anyone in Leicester who doesn’t work alongside a Muslim, or have a Muslim friend or take part in some kind of social activities that mix them with people from other races, faiths and backgrounds and I think it’s being true to our own experience and what we find of people as themselves, that really help get through this, rather than reacting to stereotypes.

JL: George, thank you very much indeed. Well also listening to this and joining us on the line is Andrew Robathan, the Leicestershire South MP, and the Minister of State for the Armed Forces. [extended interview with Andrew Robathan MP]

JL: And just back to you, George Ballentyne from Leicester Council of Faiths, you would agree with that last comment there, wouldn’t you?

GMB: Yes, I think the most important thing now is to allow the legal process to follow through, as it should do. Whatever justification people have tried to give for this act – it’s a crime that’s been committed and it’s in the hands of the law.

JL: Thanks very much for coming in: George Ballentyne there.

A few hours after the interview, Jonathan was gracious enough to tweet me:

@GMBallentyne thank you for coming in with insightful view on community relations following #Woolwich attack.

Follow Jonathan Lampon on Twitter: @jlampon

LEICESTER COUNCIL OF FAITHS STATEMENT RE WOOLWICH INCIDENT

This is a statement by Leicester Council of Faiths, issued this morning in the name of our Chair, Cllr Manjula Sood, regarding the incident in Woolwich, Wednesday 22 May 2013:

Leicester Council of Faiths unreservedly condemns the murder of a British serviceman in Woolwich yesterday. The Council of Faiths works closely with eight communities in the city of Leicester: Bahá'ís, Buddhists, Christians, Hindus, Jains, Jews, Muslims and Sikhs. Members of all these faiths know that this senseless crime cannot be justified in the name of any religion or belief. We lend our voice to those appealing for calm and reason and we hope that the rule of law will prevail. Our sympathies are with the family, friends and colleagues of the unfortunate victim.

Councillor Manjula Sood MBE (Chair, Leicester Council of Faiths)

This statement has been sent to all members of Leicester Council of Faiths, asking them to make use of it as they see fit among their own communities and their media. It has also been sent to BBC Radio Leicester, BBC East Midlands Today, Leicester Mercury and Citizens' Eye Community News Agency.