CHALLENGING THE ZIONIST PREVENT AGENDA

ISLAMOPHOBIA PROJECT MOVES TO CHICAGO

ANNUAL NEWSLETTER Ramadan 1437 / June 2016 Fight for Justice

ism the possible destination. It selves of their antiquated beliefs, they be allowed to infect political IN THE NAME assumes that terrorism would not they must now also subscribe to discourse. In April 2015, the exist without a helpful environment the prevailing social and political removal of Britain's first elected OF ALLAH, THE Challenging such as that allegedly provided by norms, whatever that means.The mayor Lutfur Rahman from his MERCIFUL, THE Muslim communities holding government calls this new assimi- position in the London borough of conservative views. lation policy 'muscular liberalism'. Tower Hamlets was also designed COMPASSIONATE the Zionist IHRC has also viewed current We prefer to call if soft fascism. to show Muslims that their views anti-terrorism policy as The Trojan Horse affair in which were unwelcome in the political Islamophobic since it rests on the the Dept of Education, led by arena. The aims of the Islamic PREVENT assumption that by dint of their Zionist stalwart and Islamophobe Not even children are immune. Human Rights Commission faith all Muslims are potential Michael Gove, concocted a In May 2015 children at the I terrorists who must be steered off national security panic by fabricat- predominantly Muslim Buxton To champion the rights agenda that course by the state. ing an extremist plot to take over a School in Leytonstone, East and duties revealed for We also believe that far from handful of inner city Birmingham London, were issued with ques- human beings. being driven by a desire to fight schools, signalled that even in tionnaires soliciting their views on I whose reach has become so terrorism, anti-terrorism policy is areas where Muslims are in a a range of issues and hypothetical To promote a new social Draconian, pervasive that it now touches the leading edge of a government majority, their religious values cases designed to tease out any and international order, every aspect of public life. strategy to control and shape Islam should play no part in the educa- "extremist" tendencies.They asked based on truth, justice, discriminatory In the last year PREVENT has and Muslims in Britain. It is part of tion of their children. Nor should a series of highly loaded questions righteousness and and destructive been expanded so that now it is a social engineering exercise that generosity, rather than a duty of public officials including has at its heart surveilling Muslims self-interest. only Muslims who doctors and teachers to spy on from cradle to grave and legislating I thinkIT'S NOT the government's individuals on behalf of the state. what they can and can't believe or To demand virtue and PREVENT strategy is a throw- Although presented as a colour- say. oppose wrongdoing in the back to the Stalinist Soviet blind policy aimed at countering exercise of power (from Union. extremism, PREVENT has far We prefer to call whatever base that power In April, at the end of a three- more sinister and pernicious derives - e.g. political, day visit to the UK, the UN aims vis a vis Britain's Muslim if soft fascism minority.It is predicated on the judicial, media, economic, Special Rapporteur on Freedom Zionist/neo-con trope that Islam Universities now screen speak- military, personal, etc.). of Assembly blasted the policy for its Orwellian impact on free is the primary cause of terrorism. ers for 'radicalism', mosques are I speech and its effect on Britain's In the words of PM David expected to control what their To gather information Muslim minority. Cameron: imams say on pain of being closed about, and to publicise, “I heard reports of teachers "It is an extreme doctrine…… down, Muslim charities face atrocities, oppression, being reported for innocuous And like any extreme doctrine, it unprecedented scrutiny for links to discrimination, and other comments in class, for example,” is subversive. At its furthest end it 'radical' groups abroad, and indi- abuses of divinely-granted said Maina Kiai.“The spectre of seeks to destroy nation-states to viduals have to self-censor what rights. Big Brother is so large, in fact, invent its own barbaric realm. they download lest their reading I that I was informed that some And it often backs violence to material is deemed to constitute To campaign for families are afraid of discussing achieve this aim… But you don't 'terrorist matter'. redress, and to support the the negative effects of terrorism have to support violence to PREVENT has created a cate- victims of such crimes. in their own homes, fearing their subscribe to certain intolerant gory of thoughtcrime for Muslims I children would talk about it at ideas which create a climate in by which certain ideas and prac- To campaign to bring school and have their intentions which extremists can flourish. tices such as wearing religiously the perpetrators and their misconstrued. By dividing, stig- Ideas which are hostile to basic inspired attire or opposing homo- accomplices to justice. matising and alienating liberal values such as democ- sexuality are referrable to the PREVENT police. In the political I segments of the population, racy, freedom and sexual equal- To cooperate with other Prevent could end up promoting ity." sphere, criticism of Zionism, groups and individuals extremism, rather than counter- This is the conveyor belt espousal of the fundamental right to armed resistance against occu- where such cooperation ing it,”he said. theory of terrorism where Islam pation or speaking out against is likely to further the Draconian, divisive, discrimi- is the first step of a journey along government policy can all fall achievement of these aims. natory and destructive.These which extremist ideology is a are the hallmarks of a policy staging post and acts of terror- within the far reaching net cast by PREVENT. The Islamic Human Rights More than that, PREVENT now Commission is an NGO in Islamic Human Rights Commission includes a positive expectation to Special Consultative Status PO Box 598, Wembley HA9 7XH, UK uphold what are described as Tel:020 8904 4222 • Email: [email protected] with the Economic and Social British liberal values. So it is not IHRC is a company limited by guarantee. enough for Muslims to divest them- Council of the United Nations Company No: 04716690

2 The Islamic Human Rights Commission www.ihrc.org.uk 3 Fight for Justice Please support us which seem to be based on a PREVENT has been a key instru- is unshakeable and our responsi- perception of extremism and radi- ment in fabricating this hate envi- bility to challenge these corrupt calisation held by right-wing neo- ronment. MESSAGE FROM systems – rather than individuals – cons. IHRC has been working hard to should be our mission. challenge PREVENT.We were We in the Islamic Human Rights Muslim one of the first organisations to Commission have been involved in This anti-Muslim arrange a conference to discuss THE CHAIRMAN this work for over 19 years and we community discourse is also the dangers of PREVENT and is a time of great We also see the continuation of need your support to continue this further targeted create a platform for other organi- blessings,RAMADAN a time for recharging our injustice in Palestine, Kashmir and effort.We all spend huge amounts increasingly sations to network and share spiritual batteries and a time for Myanmar and Zionist-style war of our concern and resources in This relentless juggernaut of encouraging hate ideas.We have raised our reflection.We should use this crimes targeting civilians inYemen nurturing a better future for our chil- anti-Muslim policies has swept concerns with various institutions, month to reflect upon our commit- by Saudi Arabia and indeed the dren and if we are going to have a aside all opposition. This persist- crimes against nationally and internationally ment to Allah and our spiritual continuation of barbaric acts by bright future for our children – and “ their children – we need to make ent ignoring of legitimate including the UN.We have created progressas Muslims.But we should Daesh in Iraq and Syria.It is all concerns forced IHRC to discon- Muslims and disseminated a ‘know your also reflect upon the situation the keeping our minds and hearts sure we can rise to the challenge of tinue its long-standing policy of powers of the Terrorism Act 2000 rights’leaflet that explains peoples Ummah finds itself today. occupied with the pain and suffer- confronting this environment of engaging in government anti- have been of non-whites. Unfortunately this year we’ve ing of the victims. hate to helpcreate a better and just terrorism consultations at the This anti-Muslim discourse is seen a continuation of the demoni- society for all.Together we can do beginning of 2015.We felt that our not only socially divisive but is also sation and legitimisation of the this.Please help us to make it a engagement was allowing the increasingly encouraging hate environment of hate against reality by supporting us. government to claim that it was crimes against Muslims such as Muslims and Islam in Britain as well considering the views of civil soci- physical and verbal attacks and as the rest of the Western world. Massoud Shadjareh ety organisations when in fact the discrimination. Our latest hate At the same time we are seeing We must stop hiding Chair, Islamic Human Rights final policies were always a fore- crime report on the UK, published an ever-increasing indifference Commission gone conclusion. in November, showed that towards the loss of life of Muslims our heads and rise up We have noticed a pattern of between 2010 and 2014 the around the world,almost to the with confidence and state behaviour develop in which number of people who reported extent that it is as if they are not focus on combating every time there is a terrorist act seeing Islamophobia directed at part of the human race.One feels if committed by a Muslim the someone else spiked from 50% to these atrocities and abuses were the injustices that we moment is cynically exploited by 82%. In the same period the carried out against animals, there face not just for our politicians to widen the powers of would be a much bigger outcry by “ number of people who had sake but for all of the security services, erode witnessed negative stereotypes humanity and the Western public.It fundamental freedoms and further about Islam and Muslims jumped is a reality that only terror attacks in humanity target and marginalise the Muslim from 69% to 93.3% suggesting London, Paris and Brussels gener- The climate of hate which we community. reported in our report‘Environment these experiences have become Arun Kundnani speaks at IHRC’s ate outcries and condemnation. It goes without saying that the almost universal for Muslims. 2015 conference on PREVENT But everyday victims of the same of Hate:The New Normal for application of existing anti-terror- IHRC ascribes the worsening barbaric group in Beirut, Ankara, Muslims in the UK’published in ism laws is discriminatory and conditions on a 'hate environment' Syria, Iraq,Yemen and Nigeria November 2015 – shows us we disproportionately used against that has been deliberately whipped rights if they are targeted by hardly receive a mention let alone can no longer look at perpetrators the Muslim community.For exam- up by the media, politicans and the PREVENT.IHRC is also working mass condemnation and a as the only ones responsible.It is ple, according to the government's commentariat, the purpose of with various community groups to minute’s silence.This horrible face those who create the environment own statistics, since 2001 some which is to 'otherise' Muslims and help them challenge the imple- of exceptionalism has become so that are equally to blame.The politi- 70% of all arrests under the legitimise discriminatory treatment mentation of PREVENT in their established and has become so cians, media and system thrive on Schedule 7 stop and search of them through official policy. local communities. normative that even Muslims and creating division and otherness as The above represents just some Muslim organisations only a means of distracting society from of the things we are doing to chal- condemn and respond to loss of life the real economic, social and lenge PREVENT and the creation in the West. environmental challenges that of an environment of hate here in The other disease which is need to be addressed. the UK.The PREVENT strategy spreading is internalisation of At a time like this we must stop presents the biggest ever chal- Islamophobia and the promotion of hiding our heads and rise up with lenge to Muslims and civil liberties otherness within Islam as an confidence and focus on combat- in Britain, a challenge that can only excuse for creating conflict .In ing the injustices that we face not be met with informed research and December 2015 we saw the just for our sake but for all of concerted action.We urge you to massacre of 1000 innocent men, humanity.We can do it.And we help us in our effort to better under- women and children by the must do it - relying on Allah SWT stand and confront that threat. Nigerian government and and the teachings of the Prophet Use coupon code ʻilovecandyʼ to get 25% off at appeasement of the war criminals PBUH as the tools for creating a Faisal Bodi from the international community better and more just society for all. halalsweetco.com through its silence. Our confidence in Allah and Islam

4 The Islamic Human Rights Commission www.ihrc.org.uk 5 IHRC Bookshop - Events Islamophobia

‘Sparks of Fire’. She in Elizabeth Lymer and Bookshop is hub detailed the human Aisha Mohammad host stories behind the their own events, Bosnian genocide as she complete with poetry and HATE CRIME PROJECTS of IHRC activities lived and worked activities. diverse crowd to the amongst its victims in the The past year has also year has 2015, tal perception of Muslims, In 2010, 50% of respon- at IHRC Abed ANOTHER bookshop. 1990’s. seen an increase in inter- • passed at the IHRC IHRCIN NOVEMBER published the book feelings on whether reli- dents had seen or heard Choudhury, journalist It’s this diversity that In October we national clients for the Bookshop and Gallery ‘Environment of Hate: gious acts of hate are Islamophobia against Peter Oborne and drives us to continue our welcomed writer and bookshop.We now have and once again it has The New Normal for dealt with adequately, another person. In 2014, academics Nisha Kapoor aim of disseminating historian Habeeb exclusive titles from the been an eventful and Muslims in the UK’ which causes of racist / this figure rose to 80%. and David Miller. It was memorable one. Over the information that chal- Akande. Habeeb gave a likes of Syed Muhammad draws on meticulous Islamophobic culture, if chaired by IHRC's Raza lenges existing socio- fascinating talk on his Naquib al-Attas and insti- last year the bookshop survey findings and institutions such as the The launch of the book Kazim.We were joined by political structures and newest book; tutions such as ICIT in has successfully hosted academic studies to media contribute to such was timely as everyday a number of academics, engages people to criti- ‘Illuminating the Malaysia.These addi- author evenings and chil- express the candid reali- cultures, the role and life for Muslims in Britain community activists and cally assess past narra- Blackness’ that tions, coupled with our dren’s events, all the ties of Muslims in Britain effects on the behaviour is undoubtedly perme- journalists as well as tives. discusses the issue of matchless artwork and while adding to our and procedures to of Muslims etc. ated by rising levels of press including Al This aim has inspired Islam in Brazil, as well as ornaments from locales unique products that address the issues.The abuse, discrimination and Jazeera Arabic, Al our stellar author his own travels there. such as Iran, Indonesia, make us stand out. rigorous fieldwork for the violence. We received Jazeera English, Press evenings. In May 2015 At the IHRC the local Granada and the US, The gallery has played book began in early 2014 wide media coverage, TV and IRNA London, to we hosted academic and community means a lot differentiate us and help Some findings host to a unique exhibi- with the distribution and from articles in the name a few. tion by art collective Fellow of the Royal to us, which is why we us be truly global. collection of qualitative include: The normalisation of Experience of those Guardian, Huffington Variant Space.Their Asiatic Society, gear events to foster As ever we have more and quantitative ques- • Islamophobia in Europe ‘always’ seeing negative Post and The Times and exhibition ‘Invisible Lines’ Muhammad Mojlum good community rela- exhibitions and events tionnaires all over the UK is disturbingly, yet stereotypes of televi- showed artwork created Khan, as he discussed tions. In particular we planned, as well as from which we received expectedly, on the rise. Muslim people in by the various artists at his book;‘The Muslim always strive to have continuing our mobile almost 1,800 completed Thus we are in the the media rose Variant Space. Heritage of Bengal’. This enlightening events for bookstalls at conferences questionnaires.The midst of undertaking from 10% in 2010 Comprised mostly of focused on the often children.We can proudly and events around the survey covered large the Muslim to 39.4% in 2014. female Muslim artists forgotten Muslim figures say during every school country. demographics including Experiences of In 2010, 30%of from an array of back- that have been crucial to holiday last year there age, gender, areas in the • Hostility and respondents said grounds, our gallery the development of India was at least one event on UK with high levels of Discrimination proj- If you would like to they ‘never’ saw helped exhibit their art in and Bangladesh over the at IHRC that both parents Muslim population, as ects in Germany and organise an event at negative stereo- a new place and in a last 200 years. and children could come well as areas with signifi- France.We have our bookshop or have types of Muslims more personal way.The Autumn 2015 saw two to enjoy. cantly low Muslim popula- collected around a us bring a stall to your in the media, in art included was a multi- popular author evenings These included an ‘Eid tion, ethnic backgrounds, total of 150 surveys event anywhere in the 2014 however, tude of mixed media at the Bookshop. In Special Storytelling’ marital statuses, work from France and 180 UK please email 94% of respon- including video, 3D- September we hosted during September. In statuses, levels of educa- from Germany, both [email protected] or call dents said they works and illustrations. Saida Sherif, a seasoned recent months we were tion, countries of birth online, whilst pursu- 020 8904 4222. saw negative The exhibition helped aid-worker as she lucky enough to have two and citizenship, self- ing the distribution Kamal Khan stereotypes. introduce a new and discussed her book great children’s authors deemed levels of reli- and collection of In 2010 fewer gious practice and visibil- • hard copies as well. than 60% of Buy all our products on-line at http://shop.ihrc.org ity of ‘Muslimness’. Questionnaires respondents said The quantitative have been some- they encountered Islamophobia, extremism, Students, Scotland surveys measured expe- what modified to politicians using and the domestic War on Against Criminalising riences through categori- reflect the situations Islamophobic rheto- Islamophobia Terror, published in 2014, Communities (SACC), sation of five sections: in Germany and ric and that figure is available at the IHRC The Haldane Society of Being a Member of a France better and has risen to almost Bookshop. Socialist Lawyers and Hated Society, Ideology, have been translated into and our dignity 85% in 2014. sion and radio coverage Other speakers University & College Discrimination and not only German and 2015 saw IHRC’s attacks and find ways to • The survey also reveals by many broadcasters included Leroy Logan, Union. Double Discrimination, from the BBC to ITV. French but also Arabic ‘PreventingViolentJUNE undermine the state’s Basmah Sahib, Cerie The event included Cross Cultural Schemata unsettling statistics on and Turkish.To get Extremism?’conference at efforts to enforce the discrimination faced by Bullivant, Marie Breen- audience discussions and Intercultural Held at the P21 Gallery involved in these projects, the Amanah Centre in programme.The keynote Smyth, Robert Ferguson, involving a variety of Sensitivity and Policy.On Muslims in both the work- please email East London which speaker was Arun place and in an education in London on Tuesday 17 Patricia McManus, and academics, grassroots the other hand, the quali- November, we had a [email protected] as we analysed the govern- Kundnani, a renowned UmitYildiz.Supporting activists, lawyers, press tative survey questions setting. are continuously recruit- ment’s Prevent expert on race, • 66% of those surveyed panel of speakers includ- organisations included and students.Discussion sought to elicit the ing co-author of the ing people to assist with programme and Islamophobia, political Bandung2, CAGE UK, points included the eradi- respondents’ views as have experienced verbal research support. discussed how we can violence and surveillance. abuse at some point – a report and Head of FreeTalha, Lewisham cation of free debate in the well as lived experiences Research at IHRC, Arzu collectively respond to its His latest book,The Islamic Centre, NUS Black on societal / governmen- definite increase from the pressures, resist its Muslims are Coming! Continued on page 23 39.8% in 2010. Merali, Head of Advocacy Ashiya Mendheria

6 The Islamic Human Rights Commission www.ihrc.org.uk 7 IHRC Legal Media MEDIA DEPARTMENT DEFENDING PRODUCES MORE HARD- YOUR RIGHTS HITTING DOCUMENTARIES the years IHRC has organ- producer Arzu Merali and director more aware of the issues. cases. isedOVER a variety of events at the local Assed Baig being available for Our documentaries have been IHRC Legal is now a fully established In relation to its immigration law and international level.These question and answer sessions. screened in a number of locations advice service specialising in UK work, IHRC Legal successfully events have showcased a number Alongside ‘Forgotten Genocide’ ranging from art venues to univer- helped a woman who was denied of diverse speakers who have another IHRC produced docu- sities. We are very much inter- Immigration law (OISC Level 3) and access to public funds and left delivered many captivating talks. mentary is the ‘Zaria Massacre’ ested in cooperating with external Employment and Discrimination Law. destitute while having to raise her These include our annual events which highlights the ongoing organisations and individuals, so if children. Although, granted ‘leave such as the Islamophobia sectarian conflict in Nigeria that you are interested in screening legal has taken on cases halal meat to work and to eat non- Conference, the moving Genocide IHRC is tirelessly campaigning one of our documentaries please IHRCinvolving issues relating to halal meat including pork instead. to remain’ by the Home Office, as part of their strategy to make the Memorial Day and our most impor- against.The documentary follows contact: [email protected] for discrimination, unfair dismissal, IHRC Legal was able to challenge tant social event of the year, the the events of Al-Quds Day 2014 more information. breach of contract and wrongful the unlawful behaviour of the UK a ‘hostile’ place for migrants, she was denied access to public Islamophobia Awards, in addition when a pro-Palestinian demon- The majority of our events are dismissal claims, unlawful deduc- employer and secure a substan- to our countless author evenings stration was attacked by the live streamed and can be viewed tion of wages, grievances, tial five figure settlement. funds. IHRC Legal applied to have and documentary screenings. Nigerian army killing 40 people directly on our website.We aim to support during disciplinary and What was unique and ground- These events can be found on including the teenage sons of the ensure that our events are easily investigatory proceedings and breaking about the case was that this condition removed by provid- ing detailed representations and IHRCTV,our officialYouTube leader of the Nigerian Islamic accessible to those who were not representation at the it was funded entirely by IHRC’s channel. Movement, Sheikh Ibraheem El- able to make it on the day and Employment Tribunal. Legal Defence Fund.The fund is extensive proof of the family’s destitution as well as the ill health Last year one of our biggest Zakzaky. therefore upload all events to our In fact, recently, IHRC Legal the first of its kind to be set up by events was the long-awaited IHRC aims to focus on suffer- Youtube channel represented a Muslim waitress in a Muslim charity in the UK and of one of the children; IHRC Legal managed to secure the removal screening of our very own IHRC ings that are overlooked by the (https://www.youtube.com/user/IH a successful case of religious will be used to support IHRC produced documentary ‘Forgotten mainstream media and the inter- RCtv/) and Vimeo discrimination against her Legal clients in paying for some of of the Home Office’s condition. IHRC Legal continues to Genocide’about the Bosnian national community by creating (https://vimeo.com/user2933030) employer.The employee had the costs incurred when pursuing genocide which was directed by content that is easily accessible to accounts. been told she could not bring employment and discrimination advise on the full range of immi- gration applications to the Home Channel 4 reporter Assed Baig. the general public to make them Thania Uddin Office, including but not limited to: The documentary used personal accounts from survivors, the testi- • Entry Clearance Applications monies of prisoners and interviews Close to a continent • Leave to Remain Applications with the likes of Murat Tahirovic, • Indefinite Leave to Remain / President of the Association of Told to eat pork and away from her family EEA permanent residency Witness and Victims of Genocide, • EEA Registration Certificates / as well as archival footage to prove called a terrorist So she contacted IHRC for advice and support Residence cards the entirety of the war constituted • Human Rights applications genocide.The war gravely So she contacted IHRC for advice and support • Citizenship Applications – impacted 100,000 Bosnian civil- Aminah moved from Algeria to the UK where she studied English, married a ians while the international British citizen in 2010 and had three children. Unfortunately she was unable to Naturalisation & Registration Nabila worked as a waitress at a restaurant where her employer referred to make any applications to the Home Office upon the expiration of her visa in 2012 • Applications for Immigration Bail community turned a blind eye to her as a terrorist, called her a member of ISIS/ISIL, didn’t allow her to eat because of financial difficulties. This left her on the verge of being deported. • Applications for replacement this massacre. IHRC is proud to be halal meat and told her to eat pork instead. Her protests were dismissed on a status documents or biometric able to say it has tried to bring to number of occasions IHRC helped this wife and mother secure her immigration status despite having to light an issue that has otherwise prove “insurmountable obstacles”. With IHRC Legal’s assistance, she was granted residence permits / removal of IHRC Legal was able to challenge the unlawful behavior of the employer and leave to remain and will no longer worry about being torn apart from her family. conditions on leave to remain been largely ignored by the inter- secure a substantial five figure in a religious/racial discrimination claim. • Preparation of and representa- national community. tion at Appeal hearings The premiere was held in the Contact us if you need highly esteemed London art Contact us if you think you have been immigration advice. centre Rich Mix. Over 100 guests a victim of discrimination at work If you or someone you know attended and performances took 202 Preston Road, Wembley would like to discuss any em- place from a number of spoken 202 Preston Road, Wembley HA9 8PA, United Kingdom ployment or immigration mat- word artists, most notably Talha HA9 8PA, United Kingdom T: 020 8904 4222 ter please contact us on 020 Ahsan. Since the premiere we T: 020 8904 4222 E: [email protected] 8904 4222. have screened ‘Forgotten E: [email protected] Genocide’ throughout the UK with W: www.ihrc.org.uk Mushtak Ahmed W: www.ihrc.org.uk

8 The Islamic Human Rights Commission www.ihrc.org.uk 9 An evening of laughter ISLAMOPHOBIA AWARDS 2016 Votes from across the globe Massoud Shadjareh and guests enjoy the evening's entertainment few words about working to eradi- daily basis.The organisation is at Islamophobia Awards on 5 category were revealed accompa- Book/Movie/TV category saw the cate harmful UK counter-terror poli- the forefront in the production of MarchIHRCʼs was a glamorous event nied by short clips showcasing American television series cies like the PREVENT strategy. research on anti-Muslim hate crime well-attended by politicians, reli- their bad demeanour. In UK winner ‘Homeland’ take the Islamophobia Others who were honoured for their and has done work on the UK, gious figures and notable David Cameron’s case – he was crown.Their win was also recog- efforts in combating Islamophobia Canada, France and the USA.We members of the Muslim commu- memori- nised by graffiti artists Heba included Dr Larycia Hawkins, the were also happy with the outcome Douglas Murray gets a badge for nity. Intended to Amin, Caram Kapp and Don German group ‘Women In Exile’ of the silent auction that was held 'trying and never succeeding' mock Islamophobic Karl.The three artists had previ- featuring artwork from Mohammed personalities and ously worked on the set of Hamza and Siddiqa Juma. institutions, the event Homeland where they were It was important at the end of the provides the Muslim hired to make the landscape evening to recognise the impor- community with an look more authentic. But instead tance of working together to fight opportunity to laugh - as they were all severe critics for justice.The overall winner on the and engage in some of the show – Heba, Caram and Though the night was US presidential candi- humour while still Don painted slogans like date Donald Trump.The scary real- appreciating the seri- ‘Homeland is racist’ that would Islamophobia Awards ity is just how real the possibility of ousness of the issue. later make it on to the screens present a chance for him becoming president is – The four categories of millions of viewers across the despite his very public announce- voted for by the public world.We were thankful to a night of laughter ment and ensuing campaign to this year were: UK, have them involved. and escapism, it is stop Muslims from entering the US. International, “ The reminder of the execution-style also IHRC’s main Book/Movie/TV and Genuine murders of three Sudanese men in News Media.The annual fundraising the USA - Mohamedtaha Omar, months preceding the winners Adam Mekki, Muhannad Tairab – event saw votes come event. The News Media category was a sobering end to a successful in from across the globe and journalist Jon Snow. evening. as people scurried to featured the likes of The Daily Mail and Cathy Newman but it Comedian Nabil Abdulrashid name and shame their You can view the videos of the was Sky News’ Kay Burley who was also a big feature on the night chosen Islamophobes. evening at: www.youtube.com/ came up trumps after dismissing a and the audience thoroughly This year guests were treated to alised discussing user/IHRCtv/videos claim that she was being enjoyed his humour which refer- goodie bags with items provided Muslim women (who enced politics, racism and religion. by our generous sponsors: he has also termed Islamophobic as “nonsense.”The Nadia Rasheed International category saw a short- Singer and spoken word artist cards from Muslim By “traditionally Melissa Melodee also performed a Design; toiletries submissive.”) list of nominees that spanned the globe from the Netherlands to selection of thoughtful pieces that from He was moved the audience. Tamese&Jackson, announced Tajikistan. Charlie Hebdo took home this award for a second Though the Islamophobia sweets from Halal the winner Awards present a chance for a Sweet Co and and it was consecutive year after publishing a despicable cartoon featuring a night of laughter and escapism, it is crystals from promised also IHRC’s main annual fundrais- Scents of that a deceased refugee baby. While also enjoying the spoof ing event. Numerous videos were Paradise.The ‘Moonpig’ screened to the audience which spoof ceremony card awards, the audience was pleased with the added remembrance of showcased the organisation’s work was held in the same would be – this included highlights of IHRC Hosts announce vein as the Oscars sent to those individuals and organisa- tions who have helped in the fight Legal, Genocide Memorial Day, Donald Trump as (except we’re mocking him. IHRC’s Hate Crime Project and the Overall the racists and not The against Islamophobia. Malia Bouattia was in attendance from more. Many guests on the night Melissa Islamophobe of applauding them in our were happy to donate towards Melodee the Year case) and the four NUS Black Students to accept their award on stage – she said a IHRC’s cause and the research nominees in each that IHRC continues to do on a Nabil Abdulrashid 10 The Islamic Human Rights Commission www.ihrc.org.uk 11 Advocacy Islamophobia Challenging ISLAMOPHOBIA the pernicious PREVENT PROJECT MOVES strategy Advocacy department defends those TO CHICAGO affected by the ever-expanding local hero amongst Palestinians and other activists in the city. counter-terrorism strategy Laquan McDonald is another Advocacy department has tion of a KnowYour Rights leaflet name etched in the memories of Photo:Cair spentIHRCʼs much of the last year work- as well as conducting workshops many in Chicago. He was shot ing on ways to understand how around the country on Prevent. dead by police in 2016. No fewer the government’s counter-extrem- We are able to assist those US city next than 16 bullets entered his body.. ism policy Prevent is negatively affected by Prevent by challenging Protests and demonstrations impacting Muslim communities the public body targeting them (eg in line for erupted across the city as a result and what we can do to challenge their school, doctor, etc), and also of the killing and wider anger over it.We have learned that areas with IHRC’s hate police terror.This, as well as the Muslim populations greater than successful campaign to remove the the national average (4.8 percent) crime project State’s Attorney Anita Alvarez who was responsible for the subsequent are more likely to be identified by is currently researching cover up, are testament to the the government as ‘at risk’ of IslamophobiaIHRC in the USA as part determination of the city’s African Lena Mohamed at a CAIR event in Chicago harbouring ‘extremists’. of our project assessing the levels the Prevent duty American communities in fighting In real terms we know that this of hatred and discrimination for their right to live without fear. environment in which Muslims are has resulted in large numbers of for public service towards Muslims in western coun- It is in this environment of violent incarcerated at an exponential rate people – young Muslims in partic- providers to spy tries. In 2011 we used California repression of minorities that and there is fear and anxiety about ular – being falsely accused of as a case study and this time the on members of the Muslims experience the racism that the future of their communities.This harbouring extremist ideas.The focus is Chicago, a major city in is Islamophobia.Trump’s threats of is deeply connected to the oppres- anti-Muslim environment that has public has meant the mid-west that is notorious for prohibiting the entry of Muslims into sion of other minority groups been fostered over the years has its high levels of police violence allowed prejudice to flourish.This, “that there have the US and Ted Cruz’s demand that Our research in the USA is part and stark segregation, while also Muslim neighbourhoods be heavily Islamophobia in all of our ongoing Hate Crimes project along with the Prevent duty for been numerous being President Obama’s home policed are in fact things that have that has so far produced reports on public service providers to spy on town. its manifestations false accusations. been happening for years only to levels of Islamophobia in the UK, members of the public has meant This is a particularly interesting working with them to understand be stepped up in more vicious ways is rife in the US. Canada, France and in California. that there have been numerous time to be doing this research the detrimental effects of Prevent. following terrorist attacks in the This project is necessary to show false accusations. given the current climate of this If necessary we are also able to west.There have been numerous restrictive immigration laws, policy makers the problems These accusations take a huge electoral season, with the likes of toll on the individuals, their fami- assist in taking their case to court. cases of young, often vulnerable discriminatory“ housing practices Muslims face, identify causes and Donald Trump and Hillary Clinton While our main aim is to have the Muslim men tricked and coerced by and limited access to healthcare propose solutions.We can only lies, and wider community.Given on opposite sides of the same Prevent legislation repealed undercover FBI agents into and education. Speaking with these bring about change if we as a the stigma around being associ- racist coin running for the presi- entirely, in the interim we believe it expressing and attempting to communities highlights the daily community fight for it. Our Hate ated with such things we know dency. necessary to alleviate as much as support terrorism, and then impris- injustices experienced by its crimes project is only possible Muslims have been reluctant to Chicago is also home to one of possible the distress experienced oned for this. In addition, Counter members, further compounded by because of the generous support of come forward with their stories the largest Palestinian populations by those subjected to it. Violent Extremism (CVE) – the US the regular verbal abuse and hostil- our donors. and challenge those in authority outside of Palestine, and is a version of Prevent – is currently ity they experience, much of which for inflicting this on them. However, community well-versed in resisting being piloted in three cities with the they are unwilling to talk about due Please visit our donations page: due to increased media attention Islamophobia from the public and If you or anyone you know intention of being rolled out across to the fear of reprisals and the http://ihrc.org.uk/about-ihrc/do- and our communities being harassment from the state. has been affected by Prevent, the country soon. knowledge that nothing will be done nations if you want to help sup- equipped with more knowledge Rasmea Odeh, who was tortured please contact IHRC on Unsurprisingly those materially about it anyway. port this project, or send a about their rights we are seeing in an Israeli prison and subse- 020 8904 4222 to speak to impacted by this repression are Islamophobia in all its manifesta- donation using the form on more people approach us for help. quently arrested in the US and one of our advocates. poorer Muslim communities who tions is rife in the US. Structural pages 14-15. IHRC has also contributed to this threatened with extradition, is a raised awareness with the produc- Lena Mohamed are often marginalised through oppression continues to create an Lena Mohamed

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14 The Islamic Human Rights Commission www.ihrc.org.uk 15 Al-Quds Day

Sunday 3rd July 2016 PPORT OF PALESTINE NSTRATION & RALLY IN SU ANNUAL DEMO

m, BBC Radio) at 3p chess Street W1 (near or Square ble at Du assy Grosven ALAssem he QUDSUSA Emb DAY ching to t ut NELSON Mar MANDELA UNITED "Our freedom is incomplete withoinians" FOR the freedom of the Palest PALESTINE

young Rabbi in training, Shimon The annual demonstration again Keyes from Neturei Karta, gave an eloquent address stating that it United for attracted thousands of people is wrong of the Zionist state to to support Palestinian rights misuse its Jewish heritage to attempt to justify its immoral Embassy in London everyone that support for oppression of the Palestinian THEwas once US again the venue for the Palestine is not faith based but people. annual Al-Quds Day demonstra- one which unites all justice- John Rees from Stop the War Palestine tion. There was an excellent loving people no matter what Coalition mentioned that while the array of speakers who brought faith and community they may West is increasing its criticism of the issue of the Zionist state come from. the Zionist state, grassroots oppression of the Palestinians Mick Napier from the Scottish activists must not rely on them and their resistance to light at the Palestine Solidarity Campaign and need to keep the pressure up rally.Mike Cushman from Jews gave a thunderous speech. He to ensure that this issue is given for Boycotting Israeli Goods (J- said that some of the ordinance more attention and is addressed BIG) stated the need to redouble used by the Zionist state to positively. our efforts to boycott, divest and massacre Palestinians in Gaza The event was closed with an sanction everything that the one year ago was made in uplifting address by IHRC Chair Zionist state produces. Scotland, and that those who Massoud Shadjareh who stated Sandra Wafta from the campaign against and take that those stood together in the Palestinian Prisoners Campaign successful direct actions against demonstration were very proud to and InMinds made an eloquent these arms manufacturers must have united on the most impor- and impassioned plea in support inspire many more to do likewise tant global day of mobilisation and of the struggle of Palestinian so that our own countries are not support for Palestine. Al-Quds prisoners.Watfa relayed some used for delivering oppression, Day in London proved yet again in shocking statistics in relation to injury and death to our 2015 to be, perhaps, the most Palestinian children: in only a Palestinian brothers and sisters. important mobilisation in the one-year period 1,266 children Martin Lejeune from the country for Palestine and one of were abducted by the Zionist Freedom Flotilla to Palestine the few mobilisations for Nearest tube stations: Regentʼs Park occupation forces. conveyed the voices of those who Palestine. (Bakerloo Line), Great Portland Street (Circle, Sheikh Gulam Hurr Shabbiri have taken to the seas to try and Hammersmith & City, Metropolitan lines). from Luton’s Masjid Ali reminded break the blockade on Gaza.The Sukant Chandan For more information please contact 16 The Islamic Human Rights Commission [email protected] by Justice for or Palestine 020 8904 committee 4222 Events Volunteering

colonisers, describing the arro- gance and dehumanisation that Genocide Memorial Day informs the colonisers' use of My experience WMD, and Dr Inloes presented the Islamic case against nuclear Commemorated in London, warfare, in terms of damage to life as well as to the environment. as a volunteer Speeches were followed by lively, Birmingham, Paris in-depth Q&A and discussion with the audience, addressing issues Along with Dr Tadatoshi Akiba and ranging from the possibility of This year focused on Dr Enver Tohti, speakers also another nuclear attack to the included decolonial scholar inclusion of women in order to 'Genocidal Weapons of Mass Professor Ramon Grosfoguel and make peacekeeping efforts more Islamic Studies scholar Dr Amina effective.The event ended with a Destruction' Inloes. one-minute silence to commemo- this year, Genocide oncologist and researcher Dr Dr Akiba spoke on his work with rate victims of genocides all over MemorialIN JANUARY Day or GMD was Enver Tohti, and senior academic the Hibakusha or the survivors of successfully commemorated in and lecturer Dr Sibtain Panjwani. Hiroshima and Nagasaki, deliver- three cities. All three focused on the Dr Panjwani spoke on the value of ing the message that lessons from common theme of 'Genocidal human life from an Islamic ethics the 1945 nuclear attacks in Japan Weapons of Mass Destruction', perspective; his contribution was have not yet been learned, espe- IHRC volunteers working hard at the Islamophobia Awards 2016 with a particular emphasis on the unique to the Birmingham event cially by world leaders today.Dr ethical and moral case against while the remaining two speakers Tohti shared his research on the for IHRC has More recently it has shed a lot of nuclear weapons.The annual also spoke at GMD in London the effects of nuclear weapons testing The event beenVOLUNTEERING great- It has meant that I light on the plight of the Islamic Poetry Competition was also following day. on the Uighur community in rural commemorated have attended every event that Movement of Nigeria through its launched in November 2015 for 11- On 17th January 2016, IHRC's China, making the point that even has been organised over the past protest, writings and pressure- 18 year olds, inviting entries on the annual flagship GMD event was before the weapons were built, the victims of genocides year. Ranging from Al-Quds day to specifically on the Nigerian theme of Genocidal Weapons. held at the P21 Gallery in central effects of radiation caused 20-30 all over the world the Islamophobia awards, each Embassy and the Commonwealth. GMD in Birmingham took place London.The programme featured million deaths. Speaking about the and throughout has taught me a wide range of I would like to thank the IHRC on 16th January 2016 and was talks and Q&A with the speakers use of blankets to spread smallpox “ skills and has increased my over- staff who have offered me a great attended by a packed room of local as well as a moving performance among Native Americans, history all knowledge of the political, reli- deal of guidance, support and look community members. Speakers for by spoken word artist Mizan the Professor Grosfoguel addressed gious and social issues facing us forward to getting more involved in the event were former mayor of Poet, who conveyed the horrors of the historic use of weapons of the world and throughout history. today. future events inshallah. Hiroshima Dr Tadatoshi Akiba, modern warfare via his poetry. mass destruction by Western GMD in Paris took place on It has been a great opportunity 24th January with an exclusive for me to learn about the various Batool Subeiti group of local community methods and tools IHRC has been members and activists; it was using to make change within our deliberately kept to a small scale community as a whole, whether it VOLUNTEERING due to tensions still rife as a result be on an individual basis through of the Paris attacks in November defending people’s rights when are many ways you can 2015 and ongoing security risks treated unjustly or the research offerTHERE your help at IHRC.You could faced by the French Muslim projects raising awareness about help in admin (if you are based community. Islamophobia and its rapid escala- near the IHRC offices), research, These discussions on nuclear tion in recent times. It has demonstrations, campaigning, warfare and disarmament come equipped me with a different distributing IHRC materials, at a time when the UK has been perspective on certain policies manning stalls and helping out at discussing the possibility of which have been put in place by events.Volunteering is helpful to us renewing funding for its Trident our government e.g. the Prevent but also helps you to develop your nuclear weapons programme. Strategy, and how to combat them. own personal skills and broadens The message from speakers as What inspired me to volunteer your mind. It is an excellent way to well as audience members at all for IHRC was its continuous and become familiar with what practical GMD 2016 events was clear: the immense support for the action you can take to pursue damage to human life caused by oppressed all over the globe, in justice and preserve human rights. nuclear weapons is too high and spite of colour or creed. IHRC has to indiscriminate for any nation stood with the Palestinian cause state to consider them viable, from the very beginning of its exis- If you want to volunteer in this way please email Ramon Grosfoguel, Rabbi Beck, Massoud Shadjareh, Dr Tadatoshi Akiba, Dr Enver Tohti and Raza Kazim especially if these nations claim to tence, instilling the revolutionary value basic human rights. spirit within us here in the West. [email protected] for more information.

18 The Islamic Human Rights Commission www.ihrc.org.uk 19 Nigeria IHRC RESPONDS TO NIGERIA ARMY MASSACRE IMN of instigating the violence by The assault left a trail of trying to assassinate the Chief of Army Staff, General Tukur Buratai, bloodshed and destruction as he passed through Zaria, the facts suggest the military assault the Nigerian army gunned female witness told IHRC that the was pre-planned and organised. downWHEN 34 members of Nigeria's military shot her in her private parts During their orgy of violence Islamic Movement (IMN) in July when she resisted attempts by soldiers targeted the symbols and 2014 during a peaceful procession soldiers to rape her.Some women leadership of the IMN including its in Zaria marking the occupation of reportedly had their breasts cut off leader Sheikh Ibraheem Zakzaky Palestine few would have believed and others were deliberately shot in and his wife Zeenat.Troops People seeking shelter during shooting that it would be a dress rehearsal the pelvic region damaging their destroyed the Hussainiyyah for a much bigger massacre to uteri. Baqiyatullah which served as the come. movement's headquarters, demol- soldiers kneeling down in a field Unsurprisingly the international genocide, to open a preliminary Yet that is precisely what it ished the premises housing the and firing at protestors in postures media paid little attention to the enquiry into the events in Zaria.. turned out to be.With the scars of tomb of Sheikh Zakzaky's mother that suggest they were not under massacre in Zaria, presumably In the submission IHRC wrote: that atrocity still haunting local resi- and smashed up graves belonging any threat. because its victims were all "The crimes committed between dents the Nigerian army carried out to the victims of the July 2014 Eye-witnesses have reported Muslims and members of what the 12th and 14th December 2015 what can only be described as an the destruction of massacre. that during the violence soldiers critics denounce as a radical in Zaria, Kaduna State, by the organised mass slaughter of IMN places of worship, were seen celebrating and chant- movement. However IHRC took Nigerian army amount to crimes supporters and members last Army soldiers ing slogans against the IMN, such up the baton just as it had done against humanity.The crimes December. graves and other as‘we have finished with the Shia with the July 2014 killings, raising committed by the Nigerian army The assault over two days in the buildings associated celebrated and Zakzaky’and‘no more Shias the profile of the massacre and meet all the necessary legal northern Nigerian city left a trail of with the IMN, Three of Sheikh Zakzaky's chil- in Nigeria’.Although the IMN has starting a political and legal requirements to warrant a prelimi- bloodshed and destruction with at support among Nigeria's Sunnis campaign to seek justice for the nary investigation by the ICC pros- least 1000 fatalities, all of them appears to support dren were killed in front of him when troops set fire to his resi- and Shias it is often portrayed by victims and their families. ecutor." civilians including women and chil- “the contention that its detractors as a Shia organisa- In addition to organising Although the state government dren. the attack was dence in Zaria and invaded it.Both the Sheikh and his wife Zeenat tion. demonstrations outside the in Kaduna has set up a Judicial The majority of deaths were aimed at fatally Nigerian embassy in London, Commission of Inquiry IHRC caused by gunshots fired by have been detained without charge damaging or since the events of December 12- IHRC wrote to the European believes it is insufficiently inde- soldiers.Cases of people being Submission to Union, the United Nations and the pendent and impartial to be able to burnt alive have also emerged eliminating the 14 and undergone several opera- tions to address injuries caused by International Commonwealth Ministerial Action hold those responsible to account, along with evidence of injuries IMN. Group seeking action over the nor is there any reasonable caused by machetes or other knife Photographic evidence has bullet wounds.Sheikh Zakzaky is Criminal Court also battling to save his right eye, treatment of Sheikh Zakzaky and prospect of any prosecutions.In wounds thought to be the work of been obtained along with testi- During the violence soldiers raising with them the abuses that his speech announcing the inquiry the criminal groups that perpe- monies of mass graves where the having lost sight in the left one as a result of the attack. used automatic weapons, explo- have been perpetrated by the state governor Malam Nasir el- trated acts of looting and mutilation army is reported to have buried sives and armoured vehicles Nigerian military. Rufai listed a range of grievances alongside the military.Signs of fatalities from the killing spree. According to eyewitnesses who have spoken with IHRC, the army against unarmed civilians.This, We also submitted a formal against the IMN, which is indicative torture and electrocution have Some corpses were allegedly along with the destruction of complaint to the International of bias against the IMN from the been evidenced on the bodies of incinerated, apparently in order to attack was too well organised and too big to be a response to any places of worship, graves and Criminal Court urging it to investi- start.He was also responsible for victims including the IMN leader conceal any evidence.The Kaduna other buildings associated with the gate the most recent massacre. demolishing IMN properties before Sheikh Ibraheem Zakzaky. alleged threat to the general. state government has recently IMN, appears to support the IHRC called on the international setting up the commission of Eye-witnesses have also Evidence suggests the army was admitted that it presided over the contention that the attack was tribunal which has a mandate to inquiry. reported sexual violence, including deploying around Zaria well before burials of 374 victims in a mass aimed at fatally damaging or elimi- prosecute people for war crimes, cases of rape against women affili- the general passed by. grave shortly after the attack. nating the IMN. crimes against humanity and ates of the IMN.A 14-year old While the army has accused the Photographs from the scene show Faisal Bodi

20 The Islamic Human Rights Commission www.ihrc.org.uk 21 IHRC at the UN IHRC Online

Continued from page 6 education sector, manipulation of IHRC has produced reports terminology used in the Prevent rhetoric, and the inherently discrim- Staying inatory nature of Prevent and guid- ance. on countries across the globe Tocommemorate Global Dignity consultative status at the submitted to the Committee on “La Fondation Islamique et Day,IHRC held a rally outside 10 UNIHRCʼs Economic and Social Council Economic, Social and Cultural Culturelled' Ahl El Beit (S) (FICA)” Downing Street on Sunday 1 (ECOSOC) has allowed it to Rights (CESCR). It looked at the and other NGOs like the connected November – a chance for activists attend as observer and lobby history of discrimination of the Palestinian NGO “BADIL”. and protestors to demand that their during conferences such as the First Nations Peoples and the As well as submitting oral, writ- year saw the continued Be sure to also follow @ihrc- dignity be respected.The rally Human Rights Council session, repeating of this discrimination ten statements and reports, NGOs growthTHIS of IHRC’s many social gallery on Instagram where we post featured a number of heartfelt special sessions of the Human against Muslims and other minori- with consultative status can hold media platforms -Twitter, photography from all our events and speeches from Nisha Begum, Joint Rights Council and regular ties, exposing as a fallacy the side events or parallel events Facebook, Instagram,Youtube, sometimes even give glimpses into Enterprise:Not Guilty by sessions of the various commit- notion that Canada is a model during the Human Rights Council Soundcloud andVimeo.IHRC’s what life is like at the IHRC office! All Association, Rob Ferguson, the tees that deal with issues like multicultural society. Session. IHRC has organised supporters are situated across the our video content is uploaded to NUT and Damien Read, London discrimination, torture, social and many of these. One was held in globe and can’t often be in London bothYoutube Visual Activist Collective.Nazim Ali political rights and counter-terror- September 2015 on to attend the many events we hold (https://www.youtube.com/user/IHR read aloud messages on the ism. There is also the (UPR), Islamophobia, Racism and Hate in person or come inside the IHRC Ctv/) andVimeo subject of dignity from activists and which examines the human rights Crime in the UK. The two main Bookshop for a quick chat and a (https://vimeo.com/user2933030). scholars from across the world, situation of the UN Member speakers were Massoud cup of coffee.This is why it is impor- But even better – you can watch including Imam Muhammad al Asi States. Shadjareh and Abed Choudhury tant that IHRC maintains an engag- events like the Islamophobia and Emory Douglas. IHRC’s recent submissions to IHRC will be of IHRC.Two side events were ing presence on social media that Awards and Genocide Memorial On Saturday 12 December the UN OHCHR (Office of the held in March 2016. The first connects with the many people that day LIVE when you tune in to our 2015, IHRC also held the second High Commissioner for Human continuing to addressed human rights in Nigeria continue to fight for justice regard- livestream at www.IHRC.TV annual Islamophobia conference: Rights) since 2015 have been on advocate for better and the Zaria massacre in less of where they are in the world. Find us also on Soundcloud ‘The Changing Face of Racism’. Bangladesh, UK, Belgium, December 2015. Massoud Twitter users can follow us (https://soundcloud.com/ihrc) Intended as a follow-up from the France, Bahrain and Canada. The human rights in Shadjareh gave a general back- @IHRC where you’ll be immedi- where we will be uploading audio of 2014 event, this conference sought submissions can be viewed here: the corridors of ground of the events that took ately alerted to new press releases, talks and discussions from a to elaborate on the discussion of http://ihrc.org.uk/activities/ihrc-at- “ place in Zaria. There was also a campaigns, articles and other forms number of different individuals like how Islamophobia has evolved into un?layout=default. The the UN, not just video link with eye-witnesses in of news.You’ll also be reminded Ramon Grosfoguel and Imam Al an accepted form of racism in an Bangladesh UPR (Universal Muslim causes but Nigeria via Skype with the daugh- about upcoming events from major Asi.If you’d like to receive active increasingly jingoistic Europe.A Periodic Review) report submitted ter of Sheikh Zakzaky giving a conferences to Author Evenings. updates from us – consider parallel event also took place in in December 2015 looked at the those of all very detailed account of the The twitter handle subscribing to any of our mailing Edinburgh, co-organised by deteriorating human rights situa- communities massacre that took place over two @IHRCBookshop is especially lists.Subscribe to the Alerts list for Scotland Against Criminalising tion since 2008 with the set up of days.The second side event was devoted to the books IHRC sell and weekly general updates Communities, where speakers the International Crimes Tribunal There were two reports dealing on PREVENT and other counter- the publications produced – this (http://eepurl.com/OnJE9);the including Abed Choudhury, which has targeted opposition with France. IHRC submitted one terrorism Policies in the UK. The ranges from tomes on politics to IHRC Bookshop list for new titles Moazzam Begg and Salman groups like the Jamaat-e-Islami, report to the Committee on event specifically highlighted how fictional works for young adults and and discount codes Sayyid discussed shifts in racism the Bangladesh National Party Economic, Social and Cultural PREVENT was discriminating informative texts on Islam.Following (http://eepurl.com/WDZE1) or and the Prevent strategy. and the oppression of Rohingya Rights (CESCR).The second against the Muslim minority @IHRCBookshop also means perhaps the Islamophobia list for a Keynote speaker, Hatem Bazian, refugees from Burma.The UK report was submitted to the community, curbing free speech you’ll be the first to know about carefully curated monthly newslet- drew parallels between American report was submitted in August Committee on the Elimination of and freedom of assembly in exciting new titles and exclusive ter (http://eepurl.com/bWDnML) history and the civil rights move- 2015 to the Committee on Racial Discrimination (CERD) in educational institutions. special offers or discount codes. In the future, IHRC supporters ment, and the current climate of Economic, Social and Cultural April 2015 raising concerns about The videos related to the UN We are also available on our can look forward to an overhauled Islamophobia.Speakers included Rights (CESCR). It focused on the the issue of racism in France. side events can be found at Facebook account website.Currently we have a vast Malia Bouattia, Dr Katy Sian, intensifying climate of A report on Bahrain was https://www.youtube.com/playlist (https://www.facebook.com/Islamic- amount of online content to offer – Azeezat Johnson, Roshan Islamophobia in the country and submitted to the Committee ?list=PL0BCSWzStP7XZh97NY Human-Rights-Commission- on the IHRC website there is Muhammed Salih, Ramon the effects of the PREVENT against Torture (CAT) in February HeRi5KKDjxivEj9 or at 109724959498/) where there will access to press releases, Grosfoguel, Les Levidow, and counter terrorism policy. 2015. The report highlighted https://vimeo.com/album/329120 be slightly more on offer than the campaigns, alerts, news media, Head of Research at IHRC, Arzu The UPR report on Belgium Bahrain’s obligations under inter- 2 usual fare provided byTwitter. video footage, images and more.In Merali. was submitted in June 2015. It national humanitarian law and IHRC will be continuing to Facebook has also been great for the coming months look ahead with Panel and audience discussions drew particular attention to the domestic obligation to fight against advocate for better human rights interaction as users can leave us to a more slick and accessible addressed issues around challeng- growing climate of Islamophobia, torture and the fact that people in in the corridors of the UN, not just messages of support, suggestions website where it will be so much ing laws, the implementation of racism and xenophobia since the detention continue to be tortured. Muslim causes but those of all and provide commentary on the easier to find whatever it is you’re Prevent, and racism within minority last UPR report on Belgium in IHRC has organised several communities who are victims of latest articles.Facebook followers looking for. communities. 2011. demonstrations in Geneva, human rights violations by can also ensure they receive A report on Canada was Switzerland in coalition with the nations and individuals. reminders about upcoming events. Nadia Rasheed Ashiya Mendheria

22 The Islamic Human Rights Commission www.ihrc.org.uk 23 IHRC at the EU Worldwide

In the EU, UJN has basis on Saudi Arabia been actively engaged in with the aim of dissemi- UNIVERSAL campaigns and aware- nating material on the IHRC at the heart ness-raising activities persecution of political aimed at drawing EU dissidents as well as the representatives’ attention ongoing war inYemen. In of Islamophobia JUSTICE to these cases in an this regard, CDE has attempt to spark dedicated a detailed concrete action. Since paperwork,‘The War in discussions in the EU 2015, UJN has also been Yemen. Sacrificing NETWORK lobbying MEPs for the Human Rights in the the European worlds of education, work and agenda. IHRC obtained consulta- up in 2008, the cuting and imprisoning support of Al-Singace as name of an Illegitimate Commission’sSINCE first Annual media, and renowned academics. tive status with ARDI in January UniversalSET Justice human rights defenders a nominee for the War’ Colloquium on Fundamental Participants examined the under- 2015 and is taking part in the Network (UJN) is an and then committing Sakharov Prize for (http://www.ihrc.org.uk/p Rights in Brussels (1-2 October lying reasons behind the surge in NGOs coalition against umbrella organisation for serious crimes such as Freedom of Thought.The ublica- 2015) and the landmark nomina- anti-Muslim incidents in Europe Islamophobia in the EU.The 50 different Muslim-led unfair trials, unjustified Sakharov Prize, estab- tions/briefings/11476- tions of the Coordinator for and identified avenues to urgently consultative status in the NGOs with two secretari- imprisonment, torture lished in 1988, is war-in-yemen). This is a Islamophobia in the European address these phenomena. European Parliament allows ats headed by IHRC in and confession under awarded by the pioneering work, in that Commission and the S&D (http://ec.europa.eu/justice/event NGOs to actively participate and London and Citizens duress. European Parliament to for the first time the Special Representative for s/colloquium-fundamental-rights- lobby during public hearings, International (CI) in In Saudi Arabia, the individuals who have Saudi authorities have Muslim Communities in the 2015/index_en.htm) debates, roundtables and in Penang, Malaysia. number of executions made an exceptional been asked by NGOs to European Parliament, IHRC has The Colloquium has been a chambers meetings, with the Addressing sectarianism was the highest seen contribution to the fight respond to the war greatly increased its activities with necessary step following the object of submitting alternative at an intra-Muslim level is there in 20 years, with for human rights across crimes committed the EU in 2015 / 2016.The high- establishment of the Anti-Racism reports or recommendations and at the core of the UJN more than 150 execu- the globe.. against civilians. level Colloquium brought together and Diversity Intergroup (ARDI) in to make written and oral state- agenda, and the focal tions carried out by the Since CDE began, an for the first time, in an interactive the European Parliament (EP), on ments during the sessions. point of the conflict reso- Saudi authorities. In the informative digest is Caterina Aiena roundtable discussion, local, 11 December 2014. ARDI is the As from October 2015, IHRC lution projects imple- last four months the published on a weekly national and EU policy makers, second largest European has taken part in the roundtable mented by UJN in the country has already international and civil society Parliament (EP) intergroup, and it discussion on Islamophobia, last two years in Pakistan executed 70 people — organisations, religious and commits to tackling racial discrim- attended meetings with the EU and in Indonesia. almost half as many community leaders, equality ination and racist violence as a Coordinator, participated in public The campaign people as it did in the bodies, representatives from the top priority item on the EP hearings with NGOS engaged in "Democratisation and entirety of last year. In the struggle against Islamophobia Empowerment in January 2016 UJN and met privately with UK MEPs Bahrain, Bangladesh, strongly condemned the to discuss further IHRC prospec- Egypt and Saudi Arabia" execution of Sheykh Al- tive proposals.This has helped (CDE),has addressed Nimr and is launching a IHRC build up a solid and steady recurring violent campaign calling for relation with all the NGOs and EU suppression of human urgent intervention to stakeholders working in the field. rights defenders and stop the execution of 17 As a result of this initial collabora- legitimate political actors others who are still on tion, IHRC set up a newsletter on in the Gulf States, who death row. Islamophobia and is planning to currently suffer brutal UJN has also have its first ‘Launch Report attacks for their unbreak- expressed its concerns Event’ at the European able commitment to the over the crackdown by Parliament in September 2016. peaceful struggle for the Bahraini authorities All these achievements are freedom. against human rights important steps, and IHRC (http://www.ihrc.org.uk/a activists. Along with the believes in the importance of ctivities/projects/11364- arbitrary detention of sending a first strong signal to democratization-and- human rights defender give further momentum to the empowerment-in- Zainab Al-Khawaja, and fight against Islamophobia at the bahrain-bangladesh- the death sentences EU level. As a second step, egypt-and-saudi-arabia-) against Mohamed concrete actions must follow in In 2015 UJN focused Ramadan and Husain Ali order to efficiently combat on Saudi Arabia and Moosa, UJN has been Islamophobia and promote full Bahrain. Both continued constantly campaigning equality and inclusion across to severely restrict free- for the immediate and Europe. doms of expression, unconditional release of association and assem- Dr. Al-Singace since his Caterina Aiena bly by arresting, prose- unlawful arrest in 2011.

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