The Muslim Council of Britain (MCB) announced that hundreds of mosques are enhancing their protective measures, such as reinforcing windows and doors and hiring additional security staff, ahead of the weekend.
The unrest began in Southport following the tragic killing of three children during a Taylor Swift-themed dance class on Monday, which led to violent scenes outside a mosque due to misinformation online.
Over 30 protests are scheduled between Friday and Sunday across Britain and Northern Ireland. Anti-fascist charity Hope not Hate stated that all the protests are anti-multiculturalism, anti-Muslim, and anti-government, with two mosques specifically targeted. Additionally, nine anti-racism counter-protests are planned.
Adam Kelwick, a leader at a Liverpool mosque, has promised to welcome any protesters with free food and engage them in dialogue. Kelwick, who worships at Abdullah Quilliam, Britain’s oldest mosque, said any protesters interested in genuine conversation would be invited in to discuss societal issues.
In a social media video, Kelwick mentioned that the mosque would offer free cold drinks, burgers, and chips to anyone who came on Friday evening. He urged protesters to bring their concerns and engage in discussion to eliminate ignorance and hatred.
Zara Mohammed, Secretary-General of the MCB, stated that mosques have devised a security plan involving paid security staff due to the “deep-seated anxiety” and “palpable fear” among communities. She added that mosques have reported receiving threats about “targeted attacks” during a mosque security community briefing on Thursday.
Mohammed elaborated on the security measures, which include securing doors and windows, conducting risk assessments, ensuring CCTV cameras are operational, and having paid security staff on-site. She emphasized the importance of Muslim communities maintaining a direct relationship with local police during the unrest.
Mohammed says, “Based on our previous experiences and the statements made by online commentators, it appears that far-right extremists and mobs are preparing to intimidate congregations and mosques. In Southport, they were throwing stones and glass bottles while shouting Islamophobic slurs and insults. Therefore, it is probable that we will witness groups of men and thugs gathering outside mosques to instill fear once more.”
Activists from Stand Up to Racism have stated that Muslims, migrants, and people of color are preparing for a weekend of far-right activity. Co-convenor Weyman Bennett commented, “We are witnessing an unprecedented amount of far-right demos being called, which will all bring racist thugs onto our streets to threaten our communities and multicultural Britain.”
At a press conference on Thursday, Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer condemned the riots, declaring that they were “not protest” and “not legitimate” and vowed not to allow a “breakdown of law and order.”
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