Nazi Flags Outside Belfast Mosque Spark Outrage & Organized Anti-Racism Rally
Anti-racism activists have organized a rally in response to the placement of Nazi flags outside a mosque in south Belfast. The incident occurred at the Iqraa Mosque in Dunmurry, where flags bearing the Swastika and a SS insignia were found on lamp posts. While mosque leaders swiftly removed the flags, the community and politicians were outraged by the display.
To show solidarity and stand against racism, United Against Racism, a Belfast-based organization, is arranging a rally in Dunmurry at 2 pm on Saturday. A spokesperson emphasized that those who erected Nazi flags do not represent the people in the area and that attempts to intimidate the Muslim community will not go unchallenged. The group is calling on all progressive members of society to unite against the far-right racists and to combat Islamophobia and all forms of racism and hate.
Amnesty International, along with migrant groups and the mosque’s leaders, is supporting the rally, recognizing the importance of opposing the fascists behind this act of intimidation and their agenda to spread lies and hatred. The flags were discovered early on Wednesday and promptly reported to the police, who removed them.
Jamal Iweida, chairman and imam of the mosque, expressed his concern and said the incident made the community feel uneasy and intimidated. As children often frequent the mosque, some had already seen the flags before they were taken down. However, Mr. Iweida noted that the local community has been very supportive, condemning the act and expressing solidarity with the mosque and its members.
Political figures also condemned the incident. Gerry Carroll, a People Before Profit MLA, described it as a despicable racially motivated action designed to intimidate a minority community. He expressed full solidarity with the members of Iqraa Mosque and all who were affected by this horrendous and racist act. Paul Doherty, an SDLP west Belfast councilor, found it shocking that such flags were erected in an area that strongly rejects fascism. He could not comprehend why anyone would target a place of worship in this manner.
The Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) is treating the incident as a racially motivated hate crime. While their investigations are still in the early stages, they are committed to addressing the issue seriously.
Instances like these serve as stark reminders of the importance of standing together against racism and hate. The rally organized by United Against Racism aims to unite communities and send a strong message that such acts will not be tolerated. By mobilizing against the far right and condemning Islamophobia, people can work towards stamping out racism in all its forms.
