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British Muslims for Secular Democracy (bmsd) are disappointed that "Stop the Islamification of Europe" are going ahead with their planned demonstration on 13th December 2009

11/12/2009

British Muslims for Secular Democracy (bmsd) are disappointed that "Stop the Islamification of Europe" are going ahead with their planned demonstration on 13th December 2009, in a repeat of their protest held on 11th September 2009. Our open invitation to the leaders of the protest - to meet with us and discuss their concerns relating to the British Muslim community – still stands. 

The majority of British Muslims are peace loving and seek to play an active role in society and as a result oppose any forms of extremism or movements that seek to sow division. We are therefore urging SIOE to reconsider; there is still time for them to cancel their demonstration. If SIOE persists in their endeavours, we will be staging a peaceful counter-demonstration - standing up for religious freedom, a vital component of any successful democracy.

In recent months, cities such as Birmingham and Manchester have seen a spate of violent protests, as extremists on both sides of the debate have taken advantage. We would urge anyone who would seek to cause trouble or use violence or abusive language to stay away - this type of activity will achieve nothing constructive.

While the discriminatory and offensive slogans in these demonstrations have clearly been aimed at Muslims hitherto, we believe that ANY religious or ideological group is a potential target.  The fear-mongering and misinformation whipped up by these demonstrations poses a threat to all British citizens who wants to live in a harmonious society.

Dr Shaaz Mahboob of BMSD said: We stand united with Harrow residents, of all faiths and none, who have contributed towards making Harrow a beacon of peaceful community relations.  We recognise SIOE's right to protest but they have targeted an inappropriate audience, and it is unfortunate that they have closed themselves off from dialogue.  We hope as many of you as possible can join us at our peaceful counter-protest on 13th December."

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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