British pluralism and diversity must prevail after the Finsbury Park attack

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‘We must show the dignity and decorum that shapes our common values of humanity’ (AFP/Getty)

For this to be the fourth terror attack in Britain in four months is shocking, and as a mosque-goer in London it is also extremely unsettling. Moreover, as a retaliatory attack to those in Westminster, Manchester and London Bridge, it unfolds an uncomfortable new reality confronting residents of this country.

During these difficult times, it is important not to be clouded by the fog of hate that extremists on both sides of the spectrum wish to ignite. We must hold on to the values of pluralism and diversity that have defined this country long before any written enactment of human rights laws. The spirit of the people have embodied such principles and it this spirit that we must focus on and bring together as a response to heinous acts of terrorism. If we also spew hate at communities, we give extremists the satisfaction of what they want – division and discord. We must show the dignity and decorum that shapes our common values of humanity and stand together in face of all forms of hatred and intolerance.

Ayesha Malik
Surrey

This is yet another deplorable and senseless attack on innocent and defenceless worshippers during the holy month of Ramadan; a vile transgression of human rights, dignity and the moral values that unite us. Condemnation is not enough. Muslims are enduring discrimination, bias, and injustice beyond all limits. Muslims often fall victims to reckless incitement “Islamophobia” which has manifested now in this deadly attack. In these agonising times, we can only offer our condolences for the dead, wish the injured a speedy recovery and pray that a new era of appreciation, respect, altruism, hope, healing, harmony and peace will ultimately prevail.

Munjed Farid Al Qutob
London NW2

Theresa May condemned the recent attack on the Finsbury Park Mosque as “sickening”. This is the same Theresa May who resorted to dog-whistle politics during her recent general election campaign.

Sasha Simic
London N16

Poor response

Typical first response to the Grenfell Tower horror from the Tories was to offer money – the only language they understand. The first consideration should have been to find housing be it existing council property, other rentable property or hotels. Today you report that they are refusing to house them in empty Kensington homes. Hurrah for caring Conservativism!

R E Hooper
Stratford-upon-Avon

The Government has offered discretionary funeral payments to the survivors of Grenfell Tower to bury those who perished in an avoidable tragedy. All costs should be covered, regardless of income or savings.

It is time to show compassion and leadership. Down to Earth (Campaigners on funeral poverty) could be asked to help. As a former worker in a hospice, I know full well the distress organising funerals cause.

Surely it is now time to do the right thing and treat the residents with respect.

Gary Martin
London E17

As your reader Robin Le Mare points out (Letters, 18 June), the Disasters Emergency Committee launches fundraising appeals in response to humanitarian catastrophes overseas. A number of DEC charities with domestic operations, including British Red Cross and Islamic Relief UK, are helping at the scene of the Grenfell Tower tragedy, using their extensive experience gained from their overseas operations to help those affected in London. We stand ready to provide any advice or assistance to those coordinating appeals in response to this UK disaster.

Saleh Saeed
CEO, Disasters Emergency Committee

Hard, soft or scrambled Brexit?

I, like much of the electorate, am totally confused. Brexit means Brexit we are told; now it’s soft Brexit (which presumably means soft Brexit) and hard Brexit (which presumably means hard Brexit).

Having no real idea of what Brexit does mean, the difference between soft and hard is equally mysterious. The polls this weekend confirm that the majority really have no comprehension of what is going on – except that they don’t want another election/referendum.

When will we get an explanation of what the different agencies in the EU actually do, what they cost and what the outcome is likely to be if we aren’t a member of that part anymore? Such a report needs to have political bias taken out of it so we get a real understanding of whether leaving is worth the risk.

Linda Johnson
​Beverley