from Christian Concern
Head of Public Policy Tim Dieppe explains why a definition of Islamophobia would silence discussion about grooming gangs
Last month, Christian Concern a detailed report by respected academic Dr Mark Durie into UK grooming gangs and Islam. In the report, Dr Durie argues that Islam is more associated with grooming gangs than ethnicity. He highlights eight aspects of Islamic law and theology that are used to justify the abuse of grooming gangs. The report is detailed and carefully argued.
Dr Durie joined me for a livestream discussion about the report which has since had over 3,000 views. In the livestream he was challenged on some of the conclusions and arguments made in the report and responded with clarity and confidence and evident expertise in the subject matter. A proposed definition of Islamophobia could effectively silence discussion of the report.
Government considering a definition of Islamophobia
Earlier this year, the government set up a working group tasked with proposing a definition of ‘Islamophobia’. I wrote at the time that the working group terms of reference discriminates against Christians because its objective only mentioned taking into account the perspectives and priorities of British Muslims.
This implied that the views of Christians or any other religions did not need to be considered. Furthermore, proposing a definition of Islamophobia gives Muslims special treatment not afforded to any other religion.
If the government adopts an official definition of Islamophobia this definition will be applied to all public bodies, and adopted by councils, businesses, political parties and other organisations. Many people will want to avoid allegations of being Islamophobic according to this definition on pain of losing their jobs. While this will not involve a change in the law, so there will be no new criminal offence, the risk of losing your job is serious enough to silence most people.