Luton Council Launches Islamophobia Awareness Month
Town unites to challenge prejudice and foster understanding with 'Don't Let It Slide' theme and community event.
By Rebecca Flint
••3 min read
Luton Borough Council
Luton Council, in partnership with community organisations, is observing Islamophobia Awareness Month this November to combat prejudice and promote respect across the town.
The initiative aims to highlight the impact of anti-Muslim hatred and encourage collective action to prevent and overcome it, while celebrating the contributions of Muslim communities. It also serves as a platform for sharing personal experiences and building stronger relationships between people of different faiths and backgrounds.
This year's theme, ‘Don’t Let It Slide’, urges everyone to recognise and address Islamophobia whenever it arises, emphasising the importance of taking action in daily life by challenging stereotypes, speaking out, or supporting those who face discrimination.
An event, organised by the council with the Luton Council of Mosques, the University of Bedfordshire, and the Police and Crime Commissioner, will take place at the University of Bedfordshire on 20 November. It will feature speakers sharing insights and personal reflections.
Discussions will cover findings from the ‘Everybody Knows: Islamophobia, Safety and Belonging in Our Town’ report by FACES Luton, The Raise Up Foundation, and The Courtney Foundation. Workshops will focus on collaborative strategies to challenge Islamophobia. Free places can be booked via Eventbrite.
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"Everyone in Luton should feel valued, accepted and able to participate fully in community life. Islamophobia has no place in our town, and no one should face hatred or discrimination because of their faith. Islamophobia Awareness Month gives us an opportunity to reflect on the way we treat others and consider how we can help create a society where everyone feels welcome."
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"This year’s theme, ‘Don’t Let It Slide’, highlights the importance of speaking up when we see prejudice or discrimination, rather than allowing it to go unchallenged. We all have a responsibility to look out for one another and help make a difference."
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"Last month’s No Place For Hate event showed the powerful and impactful work taking place to tackle issues in our communities and we really hope people can join us on 20 November. It will be an opportunity for residents from all backgrounds and faiths to come together, share experiences, celebrate our diversity and strengthen understanding across our communities."
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"I welcome the report ‘Everybody Knows: Islamophobia, safety and belonging in our town’ from FACES Luton, The Raise Up Foundation and The Courtney Foundation. A big thank you to them for producing it."
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"The report sadly shows that Islamophobia is a scourge across Luton and the wider county. It is one of the most prevalent forms of racism and faith-based hate. It is repugnant and must be eradicated."
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"No one should have to experience Islamophobia. We must all pledge to stand up, call out, and challenge Islamophobia and those who practice and promote it be they individuals or institutions."
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"The ‘Don’t Let It Slide’ event is a great opportunity for us to recommit, to making Luton a cohesive town and “no place for hate” through practical action and not just words."
Individuals who witness or experience Islamophobia or any form of hatred are encouraged to report it via the Bedfordshire Police website or through Stop Hate UK, Bedfordshire’s third-party hate crime reporting service.
