In a powerful display of unity, faith leaders from Birmingham’s diverse religious communities have joined forces to denounce racism and advocate for peace ahead of a far-right rally organized by Britain First this weekend.
Representatives from the Church of England, Muslim, Jewish, Catholic, Buddhist, Sikh, Hindu, and other faith groups issued a joint statement affirming their commitment to Birmingham’s longstanding tradition of diversity and inclusion. They collectively rejected any efforts to overturn the city’s multicultural character.
The statement declares: “Birmingham has long been a city that welcomes and is enriched by people from different countries, cultures and faiths. This continues today. As leaders of faith communities across our city, we celebrate Birmingham’s diversity and reject any attempt to reverse it. Our communities are better, richer and stronger when we include and serve all who live here, wherever they may come from. As faith leaders we will continue to work together for the peace and flourishing of all in our city, regardless of their race, faith or background.”
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Key signatories include:
- Right Revd Dr Michael Volland, Bishop of Birmingham (Church of England)
- Imam Mohammad Asad, Lead Imam at Birmingham Central Mosque
- Rabbi Lisa Barrett, Senior Rabbi, Birmingham Progressive Synagogue
- Archbishop Bernard Longley, Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Birmingham
- Bhai Sahib Mohinder Singh, Chair, Guru Nanak Nishkam Sewak Jatha
…and many other notable leaders representing Birmingham’s faith communities.
The statement comes in response to the Britain First rally planned for Saturday under the banner “March for Remigration.” Britain First, founded by former BNP members and led by Paul Golding, is expected to draw on recent incidents, including the fatal attack on Henry Nowak, to promote its anti-migrant and mass deportation agenda.
Opposing this, a coalition of anti-racism groups led by Birmingham Stand Up To Racism has pledged to counter the far-right presence with peaceful resistance. Their campaign coincides with World Refugee Day, emphasizing solidarity and hospitality toward refugees and migrants.
The coalition highlights that Birmingham’s strength lies in its diverse, working-class population and stresses that social issues like low wages, inadequate public services, and housing crises are systemic problems — not immigration. “Fascists are not welcome here,” they affirm.
The counter-protest, coordinated with West Midlands Police, will take place in Victoria Square. Meanwhile, the Britain First march will follow a separate pre-arranged route in the city center. Both gatherings are protected under the Human Rights Act, which guarantees the right to peaceful assembly, even for unpopular views, as long as the events remain non-violent.
Birmingham’s faith leaders and community organizations maintain a united front to uphold the city’s inclusive values and reject hate and division.