The Muslim Council of Britain is deeply concerned about the rise in hate crimes in Northern Ireland, including the racial bullying and hate crime targeting several young Muslim girls in North Belfast.
The girls, aged under 16, have not returned to Belfast Model School for Girls since an alleged assault in November. Prior to this, they endured sustained racial abuse, including having their hijabs pulled, being subjected to offensive names, and being told to “go back to their country.” Adding to their distress, a brick was reportedly thrown through the window of a property near their residence, further heightening fear within the community.
While we acknowledge the school’s statement that student safety is a priority, the decision to tell the girls it is “not safe” for them to return raises serious questions about the protection and inclusion of vulnerable students.
The MCB has also expressed concerns to the First Minister about the broader rise in hate crimes, with some communities feeling forced to leave Northern Ireland. We urge immediate action, including:
- A thorough investigation into these incidents as hate crimes.
- Support for victims to ensure their safety and wellbeing.
- Stronger anti-bullying and hate crime prevention strategies.
- Clear reassurances from the government to rebuild trust
MCB Secretary-General, Zara Mohammed stated:
“The recent surge of hate crime in Northern Ireland is extremely worrying, especially in the aftermath of the summer riots. Muslim communities are sharing with us the daily horrors they are facing from hate crime and abuse, their inability to live safely and even go to school.
Political leadership must do more to safeguard minority communities and ensure everyone in Northern Ireland can live will and live safely.
We met with the First Minister during our last visit when the riots took over streets, and we have written again to her to ensure action is now taken so communities do not feel abandoned. ”
We stand ready to support efforts to address these issues and ensure no community is left feeling unsafe or isolated.