What is Islamophobia and how does it manifest? 

Islamophobia is defined in the UK as ‘rooted in racism and is a type of racism that targets expressions of Muslimness or perceived Muslimness’. 

Under the Equality Act 2021, Muslims are a religious group so discrimination against Muslims would be a type of religious discrimination. However, hostility or prejudice is often based on what are perceived to be cultural and physical traits of Muslims, rooted in racism. People of colour, including many Sikhs and Hindus, report experiencing Islamophobic hate crimes. The perpetrators don’t care whether the target is Muslim or what their beliefs are – they target those who fit the description of what they believe a Muslim looks like.  

Islamophobia frequently employs harmful and untrue stereotypes to actively damage Muslims and the wider reputation of Islam. Misinformation from the media and far-right commentators continue to fuel active hatred towards Muslims (and those perceived to be Muslim), actions that affect millions of people of colour in the UK. 

Against the backdrop of the Israel-Hamas conflict and crisis in the Middle East, instances of Islamophobia and religious hate crimes in the UK have soared. In August this year, we saw riots throughout the UK fuelled by Islamophobia, racism and anti-immigration sentiment. Islamophobia Awareness Month is an opportunity to raise awareness and understanding of the experiences of Muslims in the UK, including within the Loughborough community. However, actions to combat Islamophobia and support our Muslim communities must continue all year round. 

What is Islamophobia Awareness Month and why is it important at Loughborough University? 

Islamophobia Awareness Month, held in November, is a charity organisation whose mission is to raise awareness of Islamophobia, challenge Muslim stereotypes, and showcase the positive contributions of Muslims in society.  

Equity, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) is a core element in the University’s strategy. We have committed to prioritising activities that identify and remove systemic inequities and to promote and progress equity and inclusion. As an institution led by our values, we have committed to ensure all communities are welcomed to our campus and feel a part of the wider University community. We have a responsibility to support Muslim students and staff, provide a safe and welcoming environment, and allow them to freely express and practice their faith.  

In marking Islamophobia Awareness month, we hope to highlight the experiences of staff and students within our community. We have a responsibility to support Muslim students and staff, and we must recognise the impact of our words and actions, and the harm caused by our failure to provide a safe and welcoming environment.

During November, EDI Services and the University Chaplaincy will facilitate an Islamophobia Awareness Exhibition on both the Midlands and the London campus, showcasing positive Muslim contributions in the UK and highlighting the issue of Islamophobia in various areas of society. Dates for this exhibition will be confirmed and publicised soon. 

What resources are available? 

For Muslim staff and students: 
Go to the Islamophobia Awareness webpage to find a full list of internal and external support services available to students and staff affected by Islamophobia, both reporting incidents and dealing with the effects.  

For managers and allies: 
EDI Services has compiled a list of resources and links to organisations working to combat Islamophobia in the UK. You can find lots of reading, resources and training on the EDI website. 

Please contact EDI@lboro.ac.uk with any questions.