Muslims in London Seek to Dispel Myths Nearly One Year After Bombings

May 13, 2006

Source: BBC News

http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/uk/4768547.stm

On May 13, 2006 BBC News reported, "The London bombings created the perception that mosques require 'close attention in the war on terrorism', says the Muslim Council of Britain. A report on how attitudes towards Muslims have changed said the impression was these places of worship offer extremists a sympathetic ear. General Secretary Sir Iqbal Sacranie said it was a big challenge to change this unjustified reputation. The council discussed how to do this at a conference in Manchester. 'In Britain, mosques have enjoyed the same autonomy as other places of worship. 'However, the tragedy of [7 July] spawned new and aggressive thinking in some quarters. These quarters contend that mosques and imams require close attention in the "war on terrorism",' said Sir Iqbal. 'The perception outside the community is not very favourable. There is negative stereotyping that mosques are somehow related with criminal activity. This is totally untrue. There is no such activity taking place in the mosque.'"