A thank you from Leicester

posted by: Nick Lowles | on: Wednesday, 13 October 2010, 08:10

I thought I'd share this letter from Abdulkarim Gheewala, President, Islamic Education Trust in Leicester. He spoke at our Peace Vigil last Friday and his message of solidarity summed up the determined mood in the city.

"The EDL by declaring to protest here and by singling out the Muslim community induced anxieties and nervousness for the Muslim community in the city. The last few weeks and days were not easy, pressure continued to mount and everyone in the community were concerned to find constructive and positive ways to face this challenge.

In this difficult time, we were not left on our own. From the Bishop of Leicester to leadership of all faiths and no faiths, from the community groups to all the agencies including politicians, MPs, cllrs, City Council Officers to Police officers, engaged with us on a supportive terms. The local media including the Mercury acted in a most responsible way in dealing with many sensitive issues. Last Friday evening peace vigil and Multi faith prayers at the St. Martins further demonstrated solidarity of unprecedented nature. Hope and not Hate event echoed message of unity, togetherness and 'One Leicester'. We were not allowed to feel isolated.

What we have experienced in last few days, is a genuine spirit of 'Oneness' in Leicester. The unprecedented nature of engagements, partnerships and cooperation, we never experienced before. History will record this event with pride. Leicester has shown the way forward and set a shining example of harmony and peace. On behalf of my community I thank everyone of you for your support. Regular phone calls on Saturday from friends and colleagues from all of you to check if things were ok, are greatly appreciated. To have update from the Senior leadership from the Council, chief executive and senior Police officer outside the Mosque on the day is an unforgettable event. Thank you all.

The Muslim community and its leadership faced this challenge with full of dignity, hope and optimism. This was only possible due to moral boosting support and assistance from all of you. We remain truly thankful to you all.

I want to congratulate my community and it's committed leadership for showing restraints and courage in facing this difficult challenge in a most positive way. Our young people from all walks of life were committed, full of enthusiasms, at time full of angers & frustration, showed the admirable restraints and followed unanimous decisions taken by us all. Well done, all of you.

If EDL had come to Leicester to learn about us on a peaceful term we would have treated them as our guests and offered them a curry treat of this wonderful city. The opportunity is missed. The 'One Leicester' defeated them in dividing the communities. We have come out more stronger than before in our resolve. Thank you 'One Leicester'. We belong to you."

Abdulkarim Gheewala, President, Islamic Education Trust
Chair, Indian Muslim Association, Leicester