Assalamu Alaikum, Peace be upon you all. As I reflect on the recent Muslim Heritage Month event, hosted by the Co-operative Party BAME Network on August 22, 2024, at Oxford Town Hall, I am filled with a profound sense of gratitude and inspiration. This event was more than a gathering; it was a celebration of our shared values, our diverse cultures, and our unwavering commitment to fostering unity and understanding in our communities.

The evening commenced with a warm welcome from the Lord Mayor of Oxford, Mike Rowley. His words echoed through the hall, reminding us of Oxford’s proud tradition as a City of Sanctuary. He spoke with conviction about the importance of standing together in the face of adversity, particularly in times of rising tensions and challenges. His leadership set the tone for an evening dedicated to peace, love, and justice.

Cllr Lubna Arshad, former Lord Mayor of Oxford and a beacon of strength in our community, took the stage next. Her speech was a heartfelt tribute to the resilience of the Muslim community, and her words resonated deeply with everyone present. Lubna reminded us that our stories are powerful tools in combating prejudice and that our heritage is something to be celebrated, not just defended. Her call to action was clear: we must continue to stand together, uplift each other, and contribute positively to the society we are part of.

The event was graced by voices that spanned continents, each bringing a unique perspective on the richness of Muslim heritage.

Oxford Imam Dr Sheikh Ramzy, a director and Chair of Oxford City of Sanctuary, offered a reflection on the importance of compassion and service, particularly in his work with refugees and asylum seekers. His dedication to supporting those in need is truly inspiring.

Cllr Mustapha Maohoub from South Wales, an elected member of the Co-operative Party BAME Council, shared insights into Moroccan Muslim heritage, weaving a narrative that highlighted the deep connections between Morocco’s rich cultural traditions and the broader Muslim world.

Cllr Asli Mohammed, the first female Somali councillor in southeast London, spoke with passion about the importance of social justice and the empowerment of minority communities. Her words were a powerful reminder of the work that still needs to be done to ensure that all voices are heard and respected.

Our guest Zara Sehar, a young poet from Halifax, West Yorkshire, delivered a moving recitation that captured the complexities of identity, and the struggles faced by many within our Muslim

communities. Her poetry was a testament to the power of words in expressing the deepest of human emotion.

BAME Network member Shaida Mehrban, a former councillor from Hounslow, shared her journey as a Muslim woman navigating the challenges of integration in the UK. Her reflections underscored the importance of education and empowerment, particularly for Muslim women.

Another of our BAME Network members, Chris Wongsosaputro from London, provided an insightful analysis of the role of social media in spreading misinformation. He urged us all to be vigilant and responsible in how we consume and share information, especially in an age where disinformation can so easily fuel division.

The co-chairs of the Co-op Party BAME Council Lola Oyewusi and Brahma Mohanty, sent messages. Lola called for collective action against Islamophobia and racism. Her words were a powerful reminder that our strength lies in our unity. Brahma emphasised the supremacy of justice. He urged everyone to uphold values of equality and respect, even in the face of rising racism and xenophobia.

Dr Evelyne Godfrey, an archaeologist and Secretary of Co-op Party BAME Council, brought a unique perspective to the event with her presentation on the cultural heritage of Palestine. She highlighted the importance of preserving historical sites amidst ongoing conflict, emphasising the rich legacy of the Muslim world.

In my own presentation, I introduced the Anti-Racism Toolkit, developed in response to the recent rise in racist hate crimes and Islamophobia. This toolkit is designed to provide practical steps to be proactive in our efforts to dismantle these harmful ideologies.

As I look back on this event, I am reminded of the beauty that comes from our diversity and the strength that comes from our unity. I extend my heartfelt thanks to all the speakers, whose contributions made this event a powerful testament to the values we hold dear.

Special apologies were also received from Oxford MP Anneliese Dodds, who is currently away on a Ministerial business mission in Sudan.

As we move forward, let us continue to uphold the principles of justice, peace, and love for all, hatred for none. Together, we can create a future where everyone, regardless of their background, can thrive in harmony.