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British Muslims for Secular Democracy (bmsd) response to anti-discrimination

22/05/2009

British Muslims for Secular Democracy (bmsd) welcomes the proposals contained in the Government's Equality Bill, which is currently passing through Parliament.  As well as reinforcing laws against gender, age and disability discrimination, the Bill will prevent religious institutions from discriminating against job applicants on the basis of their sexual orientation when they apply for positions that do not entail the promotion of religion.

bmsd supports the principle behind the legislation, which ensures that while religious beliefs are being safeguarded, these employers will have to act fairly when hiring individuals who deliver services at an operational level. Whether it is a mosque, church, synagogue or temple, people employed in roles which do not directly involve propogation of an institute's religious beliefs should face no discrimination at any stage of the recruitment process, or upon commencing employment.  bmsd believes there has to be equality for all in the nation, even those with whom we disagree, or of whom we might disapprove.

Dr Shaaz Mahboob of bmsd said: "It is important for religious institutions
to ensure that transparency is maintained, and that eligible and worthy
candidates are not disfavoured in the selection process due to factors such
as sexual orientation.  This is particularly crucial in these times of
recession and economic instability."

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Notes to the editors:  

  1. bmsd is made up of a group of Muslim democrats of diverse ethnic and social backgrounds, who support a clear separation between religion and the State.  
  2. bmsd’s mission statement:   “To promote civic engagement, social inclusion, responsible citizenship and good governance particularly within constituent Muslim communities of Britain; in order to build an understanding of the shared values between all citizens to enable them to live in an inclusive, pluralist, secular and confident Britain.”   
  3. bmsd claims no mandate or false representative status. Our primary concern is democratic engagement not detailed theological analysis or debate. The level and depth of commitment to the doctrinal core and orthodoxy of the faith varies among Muslims as much as it does in members of other faith groups. bmsd founders wish to create a platform for alternative, diverse Muslim views, essential for a progressive, multi-layered, democratic identity that is not in conflict with itself or fellow citizens.  
  4. For details please visit http://www.bmsd.org.uk  
  5. For any further queries, please contact:  Dr Shaaz Mahboob on  shaaz@bmsd.org.uk or 07961365751 or Tehmina Kazi on 0207 631 4175