The Killing of George Floyd and the #BlackLivesMatter Movement

The Muslim Association of Britain have expressed their dismay at the callous murder of George Floyd at the hands of police officers in Minneapolis, USA. In an article posted on their website they stated ”We would like to express our deepest condolences to the family of Mr George Floyd and the families of all black brothers and sisters that are grieving the loss of their loved ones at the hands of police brutality.”

The protests which broke out across not only the United States but across the world in general demanding justice for George and for all black men and women killed at the hands of racism and anti-blackness, reflect the anger and pain many of us feel. However, The  Muslim Association of Britain were keen to point out that this feeling of anger alone is not enough to bring about justice and to drive the change that is so desperately needed.

The statement reads as follows: ”We have an obligation as Muslims to be anti-racist, and to stand up against injustice wherever it arises.  Racism is not an opinion; it is the lived reality of many of our black brothers and sisters. Solidarity is not an option, it is a duty and lifelong commitment to end racism. Solidarity means to drive out anti-Blackness wherever it arises, from our hearts, speech, actions and from our local spaces and communities. ” 

Finally, in response to the ongoing protests and demonstrations of solidarity The Muslim Association of Britain are committed to raise awareness within their own membership by collaborating and working with more black activists and black-led organisations. They will also make sure that their current and future leadership and members receive proper training and information on institutionalised racism and show inclusiveness and fairness, to eradicate racism locally and globally.

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