Join us for the Islamophobia Beyond Borders Workshop, in The Sir Duncan Rice Library, to discuss the international context, repercussions, and consequences of modern Islamophobia. Hosted by Professor Nadia Kiwan of the University of Aberdeen and Dr Jim Wolfreys of King's College London, inviting a host of prominent academics and civil society stakeholders to discuss and share.
Zara Mohamed, Secretary-General, Muslim Council of Britain and Dr Shahzad Amin, Assistant Secretary-General, Muslim Council of Britain: ‘Impacts and Manifestations of Islamophobia’
Peter Hopkins, Newcastle University, UK: ‘Scottish exceptionalism and Islamophobia’
When it comes to the topics of racism and Islamophobia in Scotland, there is a strong tendency to deflect, displace and disengage from addressing these directly. This is often based on claims that Scottish people are warm and friendly, that racism is more of an issue south of the border, or that the serious issue is the divide between Catholics and Protestants. Although there is this strong discourse of Scottish exceptionalism, several decades of research have been carried out on racism - and more recently on Islamophobia - in Scotland including on topics such as racism and housing, health, youth experiences, political engagement, and rural racism. Some contest the presence of Scottish exceptionalism pointing to specific policy initiatives over the years such as One Scotland, Many Cultures, or the current Race Equality Action Plan (2016-2030). Yet, many commentators still point to the lack of specific attention given to addressing racism and the need for a bolder commitment in this area. I consider some of the challenges around addressing Scottish exceptionalism and draw upon my experience in leading the inquiry into Islamophobia that was conducted through the Cross Party Group on Tackling Islamophobia in the Scottish Parliament. I critically reflect on the response to the inquiry recommendations and the ways in which Scottish exceptionalism is playing out amongst politicians, policy makers, and amongst engaged Scottish Muslims.
Sajid Varda, Director of Muslim International Film Festival, London: ‘Reflections on the inaugural edition of the Festival'
Speaker from CAGE International
- Venue
- The Sir Duncan Rice Library, Meeting Room 1
- Contact
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Please fill out the form to register your interest.
- Booking
- Online booking available