Route To
Integration
I congratulate ‘Globe’ on its role in helping people from both the Muslim & the
wider community to voice their opinions about the proposed mosque in Birkenhead.
Referring to the some of the concerns raised and comments made in the letters to
Mailbox I would first like to draw to everyone’s attention the fact that this is
not the first mosque in Birkenhead. In fact the existing mosque which has
operated here very peacefully for the last twelve years is being moved to a new
premises, only for the simple reason that the community has grown and a larger
space is needed. Majority of the members of the Muslim community are either
business people that are running Indian takeaways successfully on the Wirral or
doctors working in the hospitals serving the local community. Yes, we know that
the mosque was attacked by someone who was later discovered with other hideous
crimes to his credit. We read about many cases of vandalism and theft in the
area. So what do we do? Do away with all the organizations and places that have
been attacked or try and deal with crimes & criminals.
I find Mr Roger Hayes comments made in his letter (Muslims: Integrate, don’t
segregate) particularly interesting. He has condemned Islam and blamed Muslims
for not dressing like him, for not drinking wine in order to integrate. Honestly
Mr Hayes you need to sit and read your letter once again and you will agree with
me, that what you are trying to say is that- be like me or you are not
acceptable. As citizens of this country it is home to us and we see our
children’s future in this country. Integration is a two way process. If people
on one end are so judgemental about the dress code, way of living and faith of
other people then any sensible person will tell you that the process of
integration is bound to fail. Broadminded, modern & civilized we can be all that
if only we accept each other with our differences and learn from the good that
each community has to offer.
I would particularly like to thank Nicola Simmons who has so earnestly
highlighted the positive contribution that the Muslim community has made. I
understand that it must have taken courage to say all that in the present
situation where talking ill about Muslims and highlighting the differences seems
to be the norm. In the end I would like to applaud the efforts of all those who
are trying to bridge the gaps. Having people like you all means that our
children’s future is not bleak after all.
Ani Khan