In the United Kingdom we have freedom of choice to practice our faith, live our lives and dress as we feel fit, Politicians should never tell people how to dress or interfere in the personal nature of practising their faith.  In a free society the citizens should be able to determine their religion, culture and how they dress.  Jack Straw and this Government have been responsible for a negative focus on our faith.  Islam cannot be changed to suit anyone’s agenda and we in the Ramadhan Foundation will stand firm against this racism and Islamphobia.

The wearing of the veil is very personal for Muslim women, as Jack Straw acknowledges this is not something their men force them to do; they are highly educated and take great pride in choosing to wear the veil.  The Muslim faith and community is very diverse and there is no compulsion in Islam, this is from the Quran. 

It is interesting that Jack Straw raises this once at a time of great worry for Muslims, in Ramadhan this year there have been an increase in attacks on Muslims, what is the Government doing to tackle and eliminate faith hate crimes, not much.  There have been over 10 attacks in the past ten days why has the Government not spoken out against this.

Mr Shazad Anwar, Chief Executive of the Foundation comments:

“Why is there this double standard when it comes to Islam and Muslims, Jack Straw does not tell the rest of society how to dress why should the Muslims be any different?  Freedom of choice should be defended not curtailed.  If the Government wishes Muslim women to stop wearing the veil, will this apply to the Sikhs wearing their turban or Jews wearing their caps.

Jack Straw started yesterday saying that he thought Muslim women that wear the veil should remove it temporarily and today it is it should be removed permanently, where will this end?  This is another example of a nanny state under this Government.

We welcome debate on Islam but this has to be done on a respectful basis, contrary to belief Muslims welcome and celebrate freedom of speech.  We must stand united in defending freedom of choice.”

END

The Ramadhan Foundation is the UK's leading Muslim youth organisation that is working for peaceful co-existence and dialogue for all communities.  Based in Greater Manchester and working to also create the platform for Muslim unity amongst our communities in the UK.

For further information contact:

Mr. Mohammed Shafiq

Press Spokesman

07814835912