Civil Society Together CIC are celebrating the excellent work of two Muslim-led grassroots organisations, in conversation with the new Green Mayor of Hackney and the Secretary General of the Muslim Council of Britain. Let’s come together to deepen our shared understanding of how Islamic ethics shows up in civil society, so that we can all be better allies.
Join this short, sweet and informative lunchtime session to celebrate two incredible organisations – Salaam Peace and another yet to be confirmed and discuss the beautiful ways in which their faith shapes their work. This is an open invitation to everyone in the sector that wants to come together in joyful solidarity against the rise of anti-Muslim hostility, and build deeper knowledge of the faith itself.
The idea behind the event
Civil Society Together CIC have been delivering Nurturing Grassroots for six years now. Civil Society Together CIC have had the honour of working with and developing a deep understanding of many Muslim- led organisations. From working with them and other organisations led by people of faith, we’ve seen how faith inspires, motivates and shapes the work they do.
With the rise of islamophobia and anti-Muslim hostility, it feels more important than ever to celebrate these organisations – and build a strong counter-narrative to that hate. “We feel the contributions of Muslim-led organisations could do with some extra acknowledgement” (in the words of our Founder Director, Natasha Ereira-Guyer).
As a partially Muslim-led organisation ourselves, Civil Society Together CIC are hosting this podcast-style discussion to celebrate two Muslim-led organisations and discuss how Islamic philosophy shows up in their work. In doing so, Civil Society Together CIC hope to equip those that join us with deeper knowledge of how Islamic faith and ethics shows up in their communities – and therefore their ability to stand up to islamophobia if they encounter it.
The event will:
Celebrate the work of
Salaam Peace, led by Dr Sabir A Bham
The Lantern Initiative, led by Safura Houghton
Build a shared understanding of how Islamic philosophy – and other faith philosophies - show up in community work, in conversation with:
Zoë Garbett, Mayor of Hackney
Dr Wajid Akhter, Secretary General, Muslim Council of Britain
Invite contributions from you all – this an open discussion
Why now?
In the year to March 2025, police in England and Wales recorded 4,478 religious hate crimes against Muslims — 45% of all religious hate crime, and a 19% rise on the year before. Religious hate crime overall reached its highest level since the Home Office began counting in 2012. The British Muslim Trust, the governments partner for monitoring anti-Muslim hatred, recorded more than 70 attacks against mosques over the past year. that is once every 5 days!
We all know why this is happening. But what you might not know is how much anti Muslim hate goes unreported. The problem is even worse than we think and we are concerned for the safety of British Muslims.
Collectively, we need to understand how Muslim hate affects Muslim communities, and we need to rally behind a counter narrative.
Why should you come?
Are you a non-Muslim who wants to have better knowledge of Islam so that you are equipped to be a better ally?
Are you a Muslim looking for a space to connect with others who understand your experiences?
If you're feeling fatigued and depleted by the negativity surrounding Muslims in the media and public discourse, join Civil Society Together CIC for a space where you can connect with others who understand.
Build relationships with people you might not otherwise meet: This is an opportunity for all communities to come together and get on the same page about the impact of anti-Muslim hate on Muslim communities – and build the counter narrative.
Be inspired: You’ll hear the stories of two muslim-led grassroots organisations that have grown and evolved into established and impressive organisations, and observe the perspectives of a local politician and the Muslim Council of Britain.
Build your knowledge and understanding: Learn more about how the principles of Islamic faith add value to our communities, better understand Muslims living in the UK and how you can better connect with Muslims in your community.
Equip yourself to challenge misinformation. Explore ways to counter facts and narratives that negatively target Muslim communities with authentic experiences and voices.
Support community bridge building. Learn how to reassure communities by sharing experiences and connecting in a meaningful way, without being intimidating.