Muslims Fear for Safety Post Riots

A recent survey conducted by the Muslim Women's Network has revealed that 75% of Muslims in the UK now express significant concerns for their safety, marking a dramatic increase of nearly 60% since the far-right riots that erupted in early August. The survey, which included responses from 200 members, highlighted a stark contrast in feelings of safety, with only 16% reporting similar worries prior to the unrest. Lila Tamea, who sought refuge in a mosque during the riots, shared her longstanding fears about relying on police for protection. She emphasized the importance of solidarity from various communities during such distressing times. Amina Atiq, a poet, echoed these sentiments, lamenting the lack of space for Muslim families to grieve the loss of three young girls, feeling instead that they were unfairly viewed as suspects in the aftermath of the tragedy. Baroness Shaista Gohir, chief executive of the Muslim Women's Network, has called on the government to reassess its hate crime legislation, noting a significant rise in hate crimes over the past decade. She advocates for a clearer definition of "hostility" within the law and urges for enhanced measures to encourage reporting of hate crimes, particularly among Muslim women, to better understand the scope of anti-Muslim sentiment. In response to the riots, Merseyside Police stated that they had officers present to maintain order and reassure the community, reporting that both protesting groups dispersed without incident at the end of the gathering.