Zahra Jawad
The Mayor of London pledged funds for security training at mosques. This move comes after swathes of far-right riots erupted across the country attacking mosques.
Sadiq Khan has provided funding for four additional security training sessions in mosques across the capital as he extends his work to support faith leaders across the capital, build community cohesion and tackle hate crime, said the Mayor’s office.
Khan said the support is part of an effort to increase community cohesion and unity amongst Londoners. “This is especially crucial in maintaining the safety of London’s populous, as a consensus in 2021 illustrated that London was the most ethnically diverse region in England and Wales, where it was recorded that 46.2% of residents identified with Asian, black, mixed, or belonging to ‘other’ ethnic groups,” said Mayor’s office.
The Mayor has worked closely with the Met, partners and communities across the capital to ensure those in London are safe.
Khan said that London stands united against racism, Islamophobia and antisemitism as he announced additional support for security training at mosques in the capital on August 15.
The targeting of Muslims and minority ethnic communities has left many fearing for their safety.
“I’m proud that last week Londoners sent a clear message that we are an open and welcoming city that is united against all forms of hate,” said Khan.
The Mayor was referring to most citizens who took the streets to counter the far-right riots.
“The steps taken by the mayoral office are indeed a much-needed step, iterating the much-needed zero-tolerance to racism that London needs,” added Khan.
Photo: The vicinity of Southport Mosque is cordoned off after it was besieged by a far-right mob on July 30.
(Credit: Raşid Necati Aslım/AA)
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