Just as a wonderful spirited weekend dedicated to celebrating the life of the late MP Jo Cox drew to a close, a driver ploughed into worshippers in Finsbury Park as they left a mosque. For this to be the fourth terror attack in Britain in four months is shocking, and as a mosque-goer in London it is also extremely unsettling. Moreover, if it is a retaliatory attack for those in London and Manchester, it unfolds an uncomfortable new reality.
During these difficult times, it is important not to be clouded by the fog of hate that extremists on both sides of the spectrum wish upon us. We must hold on to the values of pluralism and diversity that have defined Britain since long before any written enactment of human rights laws. The spirit of the people has embodied such principles, and it is this spirit that we must focus on as a response to heinous acts of terrorism.
If we also spew hate at communities, we give extremists the satisfaction of what they want – division and discord. We must show the dignity and decorum that shape our common values of humanity, and stand together in face of all forms of hatred and intolerance.
Ayesha Malik
Hindhead, Surrey
• On 23 April, at the start of the election campaign, trade unionists and local Labour parties, with support from the South-East Region TUC and Stand Up To Racism held an event on Ducketts Common in north London with Jeremy Corbyn. Thousands attended to support the message of the day that we stood united in our diversity against those who divide by hate, terror and Islamophobia. The attack on a mosque in Finsbury Park underlines the importance of continuing to press home that point. As ever, united we stand.
Keith Flett
Secretary, Haringey Trades Union Council
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