Religions Come Together in Solidarity after Manchester Mosque Arson Attack
The NASFAT Islamic Centre went up in flames after what is believed to be a deliberate attack last Sunday.
More than 30 firefighters helped tackle the blaze at the building on Droylsden Road, which was badly damaged and rendered unusable.
Leaders say it is the eighth time they have been attacked in the last four years, including having two pigs’ heads thrown onto the site while people were praying.
Dozens of worshippers took part in a specially arranged ‘Peace Walk’, designed to show togetherness and solidarity after the attack, which is being treated as a hate crime.
They were joined by residents, councilors and representatives from the Jewish and Christian communities as they made the short walk from the mosque to nearby Brookdale Park.
Other mosques donated prayer mats and worshippers carried out their Friday prayers in full public view on the lawns of the park before slowly marching back to the center.
Okunubi Adewale, chairman of the branch said: "This was very important to us.
"It sent a message to the attackers that they will not achieve what they wanted - to divide us.
"But it was not just Muslims, people of all faiths were here.
"England is a free country and you have a right to practice whatever religion you believe in, regardless of your color or culture. And that’s the message we sent today.
"We’ve had great support from the local community, they’ve been with us since it happened with phone calls, messages and other forms of support.”
Rabbi Warren Elf, who also attended as a show of solidarity, said: "I think if something like this happens to the Muslim community, I think it’s important we all stand up.
It’s something that affects us all. It’s important we support each other like this.”
The event, facilitated by the police, was also helped in its organization by Manchester council.
Newton Heath ward member John Flanagan said: "It’s important that all faiths and the community came together to say that this was not done in their name.”
Mosque bosses were offered use of the Stirling Community Centre, but they are understood to have now found a temporary home elsewhere.
Coun Flanagan said: "The Council of Mosques have come together and offered some facilities, other mosques, in Cheetham Hill and other areas which I think NASFAT see as more suitable.
"So I’m glad they’ve found something for now and I believe the insurance company are looking at sorting out their existing premises as soon as possible.”
Police are continuing to investigate the alleged attack. No arrests have been made.
Source: Manchester Evening News
