Standing Together Against Racist Violence: Support for Communities of Colour in the UK 

support during uk race riots

Our hearts are heavy as we witness the news unfolding across the UK.

The racial violence erupting on our screens and in our streets feels like a nightmare, but one that many of us know is all too real.

The recent surge in Islamophobia and racist violence is terrifying. Our communities have been warning us about this for a long time. Like many in our community, we feel horror, sadness, anger, fear, and guilt as our fears become reality.

We stand with our Muslim brothers and sisters battling Islamophobia across the country. We stand with all communities affected, including Black and brown folks, migrants, and those seeking refuge. Everyone deserves to feel safe in their communities and on the streets.

Spark & Co. was created in response to racial injustice. We exist because we recognise the very real and human impact of racism in the UK on the people who experience it day in, day out. We see this injustice every single day - in healthcare, in policing, in schools, and at work. We see our communities facing their fears in the face of far-right violence and terrorism.

While we have much more to say, for now, we want those affected to know: we love you, we stand with you, we are here for you.

We will do what we can by sharing resources that may be helpful as we navigate what’s happening. Stay posted as we share more thoughts and reflections in coming weeks.

1. Responding to What’s Happening 

Different people process news and respond in different ways; there is no right way to respond. 

  • Give yourself time, space, and grace. It's important to process your emotions at your own pace without judgment. We’ve heard from communities this week about feelings of fear, sadness, guilt, anger and isolation. Some of us are feeling everything, others are feeling numb. However you’re responding and processing is valid. 
  • Allow yourself to seek community, solidarity, and support. Connect with others who uplift you and share in moments of solidarity and understanding.
  • Allow yourself to be within safe spaces. Prioritise your well-being by surrounding yourself with environments and people that make you feel secure and supported.
     

2. Support for Those Experiencing Islamophobia and Racial Hate

If you're experiencing Islamophobia and racial hate or violence this week, or feeling scared and worried about what to do, here are some organisations you can seek support from or report to:

  • Tell MAMA UK: An organisation dedicated to monitoring and measuring anti-Muslim incidents and offering support to victims.
  • Muslim Community Helpline: Provides confidential, non-judgemental listening and emotional support.
  • Muslim Women's Network UK: Provides a confidential helpline offering support and advice to Muslim women.
  • Muslim Youth Helpline: Offers emotional and mental health support to young Muslims through phone, email, and web chat services.
  • Stop Hate UK: Offers a 24-hour helpline to report hate crimes and access support.
  • Spark & Co.: There’s many more organisations listed on our resource hub. 

3. Considering Police Involvement

Not everyone is able to talk to the police or feels comfortable or safe doing so, but if you are considering it, please check out the following:

4. Support from Employers

A lot of people will be fearful of travelling or venturing out of their home, local communities, or safe spaces this week. The support you can ask for will depend on your employer and their policies:

  • Can you travel with a friend or colleague? Consider a buddy system for commuting where possible.
  • Do you have work-from-home options? For some, working from home until you feel comfortable using public transportation may be an option.
  • Do you have flexible working options? Are you able to change shift patterns or consider temporary adjustments?

If you’re looking for support or guidance on navigating your rights at work, you may find Acas a helpful place to start. Acas (Advisory, Conciliation and Arbitration Service) provides free, impartial advice to employers and employees on workplace rights, rules, and best practices. They also offer training and assistance in resolving disputes to improve working life in Britain. For more information, you can visit their website here.

5. Coping with News and Stress

What we're seeing on the news now is horrifying for our Muslim community, and triggering for so many people and communities of colour. Here are some things that may help:

6. For Employers, Colleagues, and Managers

As an employer, colleague, or manager, what can you do to help?

  • Signpost to resources and support:
  • Educate yourself on these issues to better support your colleagues and employees: 
    • Middle East Eye offers an in-depth look at the impact of the riots on the UK's Muslim communities, detailing specific incidents of violence and the reactions from various community leaders and government officials. This source is beneficial for gaining insight into the social ramifications and community responses to the riots. 
    • Al Jazeera provides a comprehensive overview of the riots, highlighting the role of misinformation and the resulting Islamophobic and racist violence. The article emphasizes the impact on minority communities and the broader implications for social cohesion in the UK. 
    • Amaliah is an online platform dedicated to amplifying the voices of Muslim women through articles on various topics, including culture, lifestyle, soul, relationships, and global issues.
    • Hyphen is an online platform dedicated to exploring issues relevant to Muslims across the UK and Europe, aiming to foster dialogue and connection through insightful journalism in various formats including text, audio, and video.
race riots uk