British Muslims launch campaign to improve image
LONDON (AFP) — A group launched an advertising campaign on Monday aimed at countering negative stereotypes about Muslims in the wake of the July 7, 2005 suicide bombings in London.
Islam-is-Peace bought advertising for London buses and Underground trains showing Muslims in a range of professions, including a policewoman and the chef Michael Barry, with the slogan "Proud to be a British Muslim".
The group formed after four British radical Muslims blew themselves up, killing themselves and 52 commuters on three London Underground trains and a bus. Four foreign-born Muslims tried but failed to stage similar attacks two weeks later.
Their drive, which comes as a new law banning incitement to religious hatred takes effect, includes plans for an exhibition to tour the country over the next two years promoting the diversity and Muslim contribution to daily life.
"In the current atmosphere of suspicion and fear about Islam and British Muslims, truth is often confused with fabrications and stereotypes," said Ifhat Shaheen-Smith, one of the campaign organisers.
"Prejudice has become entrenched and sensationalistic media reporting is creating a climate of paranoia. There is a desperate need for openness, mutual understanding and a mature debate," he said.
The launch comes after the group placed national newspaper advertisements with the Muslim community's denunciation of all acts of terrorism.
Muslim Member of Parliament Sadiq Khan hailed what he called "a fantastic" initiative.
"Islam is a faith whose primary focus is peace and submission to one God," he said.
"This campaign will help to bust some of the myths about Islam and allow the true face of Islam to reach all parts of our country."
Secretary general of the Muslim Council of Britain Muhammad Abdul Bari also welcomed the campaign.
"The silent majority of Muslims are coming forward and now challenging the Islamophobia in sections of our media -- it is a brave undertaking," he said.
