A Risky Invitation: Why Israel’s Move to Host Tommy Robinson Is Especially Troubling Right Now

In the wake of the Manchester synagogue attack and the arson at a Brighton mosque, Israel’s decision to invite Tommy Robinson (real name Stephen Yaxley-Lennon) is deeply irresponsible. At a time when communities are grieving and seeking unity, this move legitimises a man known for fuelling division and hate. It sends a dangerous message about whose pain matters — and whose does not. Real solidarity means standing with all faith communities, not amplifying voices that thrive on fear.

Not Our Culture, Not Our Martyrs: Britain Doesn’t Need Valhalla Politics

Before his killing, I had never even heard of Charlie Kirk. Having stepped away from X/Twitter, I had no real exposure to the American right-wing influencer bubble. Yet, in the last 48 hours, our UK media has been saturated with his name, his photograph, his story. Rolling coverage, live updates, glowing tributes – as ifContinue reading “Not Our Culture, Not Our Martyrs: Britain Doesn’t Need Valhalla Politics”

Hate Too Close to Home

Flags underfoot, refugees vilified, nurses targeted. Racism and bigotry corrodes all of us. Call it out, loudly and clearly.

Speaking Truth to Power: The Silencing of Palestinian Solidarity in the UK

I have spent many years working to build understanding, trust, and solidarity between our faith communities across the country. I have been welcomed into the homes of Christian, Sikh, Humanist and Jewish friends. We have shared countless meals, laughed together at life’s absurdities, and cried together in moments of grief. As the former Chair ofContinue reading “Speaking Truth to Power: The Silencing of Palestinian Solidarity in the UK”

An Open Letter to the Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer

Dear Prime Minister Re: Your “Island of Strangers” Speech – A Shameful, Xenophobic Betrayal I have given this considerable thought before deciding to share this publicly. Over the past two weeks, I have had the privilege of engaging with a remarkable group of South Asian women, discussing political issues and the importance of ensuring thatContinue reading “An Open Letter to the Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer”

Belonging in Modern Britain

Earlier today, I had the pleasure of speaking at the Margins to Centre Conference 2025 at the University of York. The conference seeks to amplify the voices of marginalised communities and this year the conference explored the theme of Belonging. Here’s the text of my keynote: =.=.=.=.=.=.=.=.=.=.=.=.=.=.=.=.=.=.=.=.=.=.=.=.=.=.=.=.=.=.=.=.=.=.=.=.=.=.=.=.=.=.=.=.=.=.=.=.=.=.=.=.=.=.=. In The Tale of Despereaux, Kate DiCamillo writesContinue reading “Belonging in Modern Britain”

Preventing Future Tragedies: Rethinking UK’s Counter-Extremism Policies

Contrary to the statement used by our Prime Minister, the face of terrorism has not changed, but fortunately the government has. I hope our new leadership will rise to the challenge and take all forms of extremism seriously.

Unity and Hope: A Vision for 2025

As I reflect on 2024, it was a year I had envisioned unfolding very differently, particularly in the political arena. In January 2022, I made the significant decision to leave full-time employment to focus on the goal of being selected as a Prospective Parliamentary Candidate (PPC) for the Labour Party in the next general election.Continue reading “Unity and Hope: A Vision for 2025”

Preventing Radicalisation and Hate Crimes: Strategies for Educators and Communities

Children across the country have finally return to school after the six-week summer break and parents have breathed a sigh of relief. Many young people will bring with them cherished memories of family vacations, trips to theme parks, and days at the beach. However for Bebe King, Elsie Dot Stancombe and Alice Dasilva Aguiar, theContinue reading “Preventing Radicalisation and Hate Crimes: Strategies for Educators and Communities”