EVERY November, as Islamophobia Awareness Month begins, I find myself reflecting deeply on where we are as a community.
There is no denying that Islamophobia exists and that it causes real pain. Many Muslims still face suspicion, unfair treatment, or misunderstanding simply because of their faith. It is wrong and it must be challenged.
But while we recognise this reality, we must also reflect honestly on ourselves. We cannot simply wait for change to happen around us. We must take the lead in shaping a better, fairer society. And that starts with taking responsibility for our actions, our communities, and the image we present to the world.
It is true, and we must acknowledge it, that a small number of individuals from within the Muslim community have behaved in ways that have damaged our reputation. Their actions do not represent Islam, nor do they reflect the values of the vast majority of Muslims who live peacefully, work hard, and contribute positively to society. Yet their behaviour has, sadly, given others an excuse to paint all Muslims with the same brush.
That is unfair, but it is also a challenge we must rise to. We must show, through our character, our service, and our compassion, what true Islam looks like. We must go the extra mile to win hearts and minds, to build trust, and to change perceptions through example, not argument.
We have a duty, both as citizens and as people of faith, to play a positive role in the society we live in. Islam teaches us that our faith is not confined to prayer or ritual. It is reflected in how we treat others; our neighbours, our colleagues, and even those who disagree with us. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said, “The best of people are those who are most beneficial to others.” Those words should guide how we live as Muslims in modern Britain.
Bradford is a city that has always been defined by its diversity and its heart. It is home to people from all backgrounds and faiths. We have mosques, churches, temples, and gurdwaras and when we work together, Bradford shines. During the pandemic, volunteers from all communities stood shoulder to shoulder to support the vulnerable. I have seen local mosques open their doors to visitors, host open days, and invite neighbours of every background to share food and friendship. These are moments that show the best of who we are.
But we must not stop there. Integration is not about losing our identity. It is about getting involved, giving back, and being part of the bigger picture. It means our young people should feel confident taking up roles in public life, as teachers, police officers, journalists, councillors, and business leaders. It means our mosques should engage more with schools, local groups, and wider society to build understanding and shared respect.
We also need to tell our own stories. Far too often, the public hears about Muslims only when something negative happens. Yet across Bradford and beyond, there are countless examples of Muslims doing extraordinary work in hospitals, universities, charities, and small businesses. We must bring those stories to light, so people see the reality of who we are: caring, hardworking, and committed to the common good.
Of course, tackling Islamophobia is not just the responsibility of Muslims. The media, schools, and public institutions all have their part to play. But we have the most powerful tool of all, our example. When we serve others, when we show kindness, when we live our values, we chip away at ignorance and suspicion. Every small act of goodness makes a difference.
Our parents and grandparents came to this country with hope and determination. They built lives, raised families, and made sacrifices so that future generations could thrive. They did not just settle here; they contributed. We owe it to them to continue that legacy, not by turning inward, but by reaching outward.
Islamophobia Awareness Month should therefore not only be a time for reflection but a call to action. Let us use it to strengthen relationships, to reach out to those who misunderstand us, and to demonstrate through our actions what Islam truly stands for: respect, honesty, compassion, and service to others.
We are not guests in this country; we are part of its fabric. Our faith and our values can enrich Britain in countless ways, just as Britain has given so much to us. Together, we can build a future where everyone feels they belong.
So, this November, let us rise above hate and division. Let us respond to ignorance not with anger, but with dignity. Let us show through our behaviour and contributions that Muslims are a force for good in every part of society.
Because the best way to challenge prejudice is not through protest or complaint, but through presence and participation.
When people see Muslims working alongside them, helping, supporting, and caring, hearts begin to change. And when hearts change, minds soon follow.
That is how we overcome Islamophobia, not by standing apart, but by standing together.
