Press Release: Birmingham Central Mosque Condemns Far-Right Riots and Stands in Solidarity with Victims

Birmingham Central Mosque is deeply saddened by the tragic deaths of Alice Dasilva Aguiar, Bebe King, and Elsie Dot Stancombe. Our thoughts and prayers are with their families, and we pray for the full recovery of the remaining victims. In these challenging times, our focus should be on supporting the victims’ families and respecting their requests for calm, allowing the authorities to carry out their work.

We also share in the nation’s shock and dismay over the attack on a mosque when families were mourning their loved ones. It is disheartening to witness the pain, grief, and suffering of the victims and their families being exploited by sections of society to incite hate and violence towards Muslims.

We are disheartened to witness further disturbances caused by a racist minority intent on inciting violence against minority communities. These individuals have hijacked legitimate expressions of anger and grief over the horrific Southport murders for their own bigoted agenda.

The appalling violence we are witnessing on our streets is, in part, a result of a political and media culture that has normalised Islamophobia.

Despite our deep concerns, we have been heartened to see the best of the British spirit in action. The wider Southport community, which turned out to clean and repair the local mosque targeted due to misinformation, truly reflects the spirit of unity and resilience that defines us as UK citizens. We are deeply troubled by the sight of mobs attacking police and emergency workers, as such violence undermines our collective efforts to guide youth away from these destructive paths.

We also urge our worshipers up and down the country to remain vigilant, particularly in the evening, but do not allow anyone to deter you from your usual activities. Birmingham Central Mosque remains committed to promoting peace, understanding, and solidarity in our community. We urge everyone to come together, reject hatred, and support one another in these trying times and stand up for what is just and right.

Birmingham Central Mosque Management