19 February 2010

A parliamentary inquiry into Islamophobia is needed

Ask most Muslims what they think is the cause of rising Islamophobia, the reply is invariably “the media”. Every little incident is sensationalised as a major national catastrophe by right-wing tabloids based in England in particular.

Sometimes it is even made up. Often they say they are legitimately covering the utterances of right-wing commentators. This has been going on relentlessly for a decade and has undoubtedly fed the grievances of the far-right who just hold up the front pages of these newspapers without comment. The Nazis on our streets are their sons, their ugly spawn.

I am not saying that Muslims are beyond criticism. Just that reporting should be true and proportionate. Politicians who want to have “debate” should, if they are sincere, talk to Muslims, not at them. Talk with Muslims, not about them. [Rolled-up Trousers] Read more