An article in The Independent published from discusses the findings of a monitoring group, Tell Mama, which tracks and addresses incidents of anti-Muslim hate in the UK. According to their study, verified cases of anti-Muslim hate have more than doubled from 584 in 2012 to 1,212 cases in 2021. The group attributes this increase partly to its improved recognition as a reporting organization and more people feeling comfortable reporting such incidents. However, they also suggest that it may indicate a rise in actual instances of anti-Muslim hate.
Tell Mama has provided support to over 16,000 reported cases of anti-Muslim hatred and bigotry, involving more than 20,000 people since 2012. The study reveals that online hate saw a surge in 2020, possibly exacerbated by the pandemic. It also notes a rise in neighbor-related disputes turning anti-Muslim in nature during that period due to lockdowns acting as a bottleneck for household and neighbor-related cases.
The organization further links spikes in anti-Muslim hate to significant events such as terrorist attacks in the UK and New Zealand, the Brexit referendum result, the activities of far-right groups, grooming scandals, and targeted anti-Muslim campaigns. The 2018 “Punish a Muslim” campaign and the Israel-Palestine conflict are also cited as factors contributing to an increase in anti-Muslim cases.
Tell Mama’s director, Iman Atta, highlights the importance of their decade-long study, emphasizing the need to peacefully challenge, monitor, and counter anti-Muslim hate.
Overall, the article sheds light on a concerning rise in anti-Muslim hate incidents in the UK over the past decade. It underscores the importance of addressing and countering such bigotry and highlights the potential impact of various events and socio-political factors on the frequency of these incidents. As with any data on hate crimes, it is crucial to consider potential limitations or biases in reporting and recording, but the findings serve as a call to action to tackle this issue and promote inclusivity and understanding in society.
