Responding to tensions

As part of their role in encouraging good community relations, local inter faith bodies have from time to time arranged special vigils, meetings and events or made short statements to witness to solidarity between people of different faiths at times of particular difficulty and potential tension, such as in the wake of the London bombings in July 2005

In Oldham, ‘Standing Together’, an event organised by the Council and Oldham Inter Faith Forum, brought the communities there together in Alexandra Park on 22 July to remember the victims of the London bombings; to show support for the emergency services; and to commit themselves to work together, across the communities of Oldham, to build respect and understanding and overcome the divisions and hatred which lead to such atrocities. Speakers included representatives of the Christian, Hindu, Jewish, and Muslim faiths and the Leader of the Council

“We are united in deploring the use of murderous violence to achieve political or religious ends. We are most strongly distressed when perpetrators of violence claim they are serving God in this way. Such actions are no part of an honest observance of any of our faiths…” part of a statement by Merseyside Council of Faiths
“….We praise the prompt actions of the national police in searching for the truth, and, at a local level, the high level of consultation that we have received from local police leaders. We pledge our full support to them in ensuring community harmony in these coming days when all need to remain calm and focused in maintaining Leicester's reputation for good relations. As after 9/11, we affirm our declaration that faith leaders will consider any attack or act of vandalism against any religious building or individual connected with that community, as an attack on all of us.” part of a statement by Leicester Council of Faiths

At times of tension, places of worship, cemeteries, and faith community premises can be vulnerable. A useful resource for local inter faith bodies and faith communities working together to safeguard their premises and ensure a joint response to any attack on these is Looking After One Another: The Safety and Security of Our Faith Communities

Photo courtesy of the Oldham Advertiser

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