The Muslim Council of Britain today called on civic, religious and political leaders across the United Kingdom to come together to provide a compassionate and humanitarian response to the growing refugee crisis affecting Europe. While thousands are fleeing conflict, particularly from Syria, many are dying as they seek refuge. All of us were horrified by the shocking scenes of young refugee children being washed up on the shores of Turkey.
Dr Shuja Shafi, Secretary General of the Muslim Council of Britain said: “Britain has long prided itself in being a humanitarian country on the world stage and offering refuge to those who need it most. We remember this most famously during the Second World War and the Kindertransport rescue efforts. We need to rekindle these values once more and ensure the UK takes its fair share of refugees. We are not calling for open borders, but open hearts. I call upon Muslim charities and families to do what they can to help refugees arriving here. And I call upon fellow Britons, interfaith, civil and political leaders to come together to see what we can do to address what is clearly a pressing humanitarian need.
Yes, this needs to be done while we redouble our efforts to resolve the crisis in the Middle East so that people in Syria, Iraq and else where can rebuild their lives with dignity. But that effort should not suspend our own humanity and our ability to host temporary, but very deserving guests. I pray to the Almighty that the suffering of these people is alleviated as soon as possible.”
The Muslim Council of Britain urges all to complete the following petition: https://petition.parliament.uk/petitions/105991
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NOTES TO EDITORS
1. The Muslim Council of Britain is the UK’s largest Muslim umbrella body with over 500 affiliated national, regional and local organisations, mosques, charities and schools.