The month of November is Islamophobia Awareness Month and the Leader of Calderdale Council, Cllr Jane Scullion has shared a message of unity, condemning any form of Islamophobia.
Islamophobia Awareness Month is a national campaign to showcase the positive contributions of Muslims as well as raise awareness of Islamophobia.
The Leader of the Council, Cllr Jane Scullion, said:
“One of Calderdale’s many strengths is our diversity, which makes it a socially, culturally and economically vibrant place.
“This Islamophobia Awareness Month, we’re joining people across the country in celebrating the positive contribution Muslims make to communities, in Calderdale and around the UK.“Unfortunately, Islamophobia is sadly something which some people in our communities still experience. No person should have to suffer abuse and we are committed to tackling and challenging this behaviour.
“In Calderdale, we won’t tolerate any form of hate crime. At a time of conflict across the world, it’s important to remember the values of kindness and tolerance. Any reports of hate crime in Calderdale are taken very seriously, with support available for those affected.”
Throughout Islamophobia Awareness Month, Calderdale Council is focusing on celebrating inclusion and diversity and spreading kindness. The Council is taking part in a special event later this month to join colleagues and partners and connect with the local community for an inspiring session which explores the impact of Islamophobia.
The Council also continues to work with other organisations, such as West Yorkshire Police, local voluntary groups and faith groups to help strengthen community togetherness.
The borough has a zero-tolerance approach to any form of hate crime. To support victims, Calderdale has a Hate Crime Partnership made up of the Council and other agencies to ensure appropriate support is available for those affected and action is taken against perpetrators.
Anyone who has witnessed or is a victim of hate crime can contact the Police on 999 in an emergency, on 101 at any other time (available 24 hours a day) or via West Yorkshire Police’s online reporting form(external link).
Hate crime can also be reported in confidence at one of the third party hate incident reporting centres which are listed at https://new.calderdale.gov.uk/communities/equality-and-diversity/hate-incident-reporting-centres
ENDS