In a significant move, over 400 Imams and scholars in the UK have come together to reject the government’s new definition of “extremism,” which they argue unfairly targets British Muslims. The definition, put forth by Secretary of State Michael Gove, has drawn criticism for its focus on Muslim groups like MEND, CAGE, and The Muslim Association of Britain.
The Imams and scholars issued a joint statement, expressing concerns about Gove’s history of targeting Islam and Muslims under the guise of “Islamism.” They accused him of aligning with anti-Islam racists and Islamophobes, raising questions about the integrity of the government’s approach.
According to the statement, the notion that ideology causes political violence, which underpins the discourse of “extremism,” is academically baseless. Instead, they suggest that the government’s actions may be influenced by individuals with ties to pro-Israel lobbies, aiming to suppress legitimate activism against Israeli aggression towards Palestine.
The Imams and scholars also criticized the government’s failure to address pressing social issues like the living expenses crisis and escalating incidents of violence and anti-Muslim hatred. They urged unity within the Muslim community and support for organizations like MEND, CAGE, and The Muslim Association of Britain.
Under the new definition, extremism is “the promotion or advancement of an ideology based on violence, hatred or intolerance, that aims to:
1-Negate or destroy the fundamental rights and freedoms of others; or
2-Undermine, overturn or replace the UK’s system of liberal parliamentary democracy and democratic rights; or
3-Intentionally create a permissive environment for others to achieve the results in (1) or (2).”
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