Wrangle over definition of ‘Islamophobia’ after council hears of abuse
ACONTROVERSIAL council motion over the definition of ‘Islamophobia’ has met with opposition from the authority’s leader.
The motion called for Walsall Council to adopt the All Party Parliamentary Group on British Muslims’ definition of Islamophobia.
Walsall Labour Group leader Aftab Nawaz said it was important to stand in solidarity with victims of hate as people continue to suffer abuse.
Both he and his deputy Khizar Hussain revealed they have been subjected to Islamophobia throughout their lives. But the motion did encounter opposition with Walsall Council leader Mike Bird quoting MP Eddie Hughes in saying it was premature and the definition was wrong and not fully supported by Muslims.
Councillor Bird said the authority should wait for the Government to come up with a more acceptable definition.
The definition states: ‘Islamophobia is rooted in racism and is a type of racism that targets expressions of Muslimness or perceived Muslimness’.
Councillor Nawaz said: “Islamophobia and Muslim hate is a disgusting thing we unfortunately see in parts of our society. Hate crime against Muslims is very real. I have many personal stories and I’m sure colleagues from across the chamber have had experiences.
“In some cases people ask you to apologise when a crime is committed by someone with your background, yet it has nothing to do with us. Instances of head scarves being pulled off people’s heads because people don’t like them. Instances where people who wear turbans are discriminated against because people see them and in their ignorance will say they are Muslims.
“These are real things.”
He added: “In 2011, the number of Muslims in this town was estimated to be 8.2 per cent of the population. By now, it will be at least 10 per cent or not more. Those are our citizens, our friends and they are looking towards us to support us and stand in solidarity with them in regards to anti-Muslim hate.”
But Councillor Bird said: “I find it difficult to accept a definition that doesn’t exist.
“We all in this room would be at one to say any hate crime or any crime against anybody because of their religion, creed, race or colour is abhorrent and should be opposed at every occasion. But I think this is
premature in so much the Government has said they will look at this issue and come back with what would be an internationally acceptable definition of Islamophobia.”
Councillor Nawaz said the definition was “overwhelmingly backed” by Muslims in Walsall.
He added: “Boris Johnson was going to discuss Islamophobia and went back on his word.
“We know about what he has said about women in burqas, we know what he said about other minorities and therefore we don’t trust will bring forward a definition.”
In the end the motion was passed at the meeting on Monday.