MP: I’m facing serious death threats and torrent of Islamophobic abuse

Apsana Begum, who is Muslim, raised her personal experiences and criticized the Government for not using the King's speech to take action against Islamophobia.

The Poplar and Limehouse MP said the situation is “escalating” and being exacerbated by those attempting to “take advantage of current events by spreading their hatred and division”.

Begum previously said people in her constituency are "alarmed and dismayed by the disregard for Palestinian life" shown in recent weeks.

He called for a ceasefire from both sides in Gaza – Israel and Hamas – and the release of the hostages.

Speaking during the King's Speech debate in the House of Commons, Ms Begum said: “I was also disappointed to see that the King's Speech did not indicate that the Government will finally recognize Islamophobia or take action to tackle the rising level of crimes. of hatred against Muslims.

“In fact, the King's speech did not even mention that it is currently Islamophobia Awareness Month and the Prime Minister did not mention it in his contributions today either.

“I am currently facing death threats and a torrent of Islamophobic and misogynistic abuse. In fact, I have received such abuses since I was elected, since I contested elections and received comments including, and I quote, 'vile and filthy religion, importing vile and filthy creatures like Apsana Begum'.

“The situation is getting worse, especially exacerbated by those who try to profit from current events by spreading their hatred and division.

“I now face an increased risk to my safety with serious death threats, threats to kidnap me, threats of sexual violence and threats to tear off my hijab in public. It follows it and it continues.

“Following the murder of Jo Cox MP and Sir David Amess MP, the Jo Cox Foundations have raised, quote, 'abuse and intimidation of elected representatives, including violence towards them, is a growing threat to democracy.' .

“They highlight that abuse can lead elected representatives to feel they must resign and completely disqualify potential future candidates, with women, people from ethnic minorities and people with disabilities suffering a disproportionate level of this behaviour.

“But, as we know, the problem is widespread and endemic.

“Every day, people of Muslim origin like me face discrimination and prejudice; The prevalence of negative stereotypes, harassment and hate crimes are only part of an entire structure of discrimination.

“Muslims are also the most economically disadvantaged religious group in the UK, with some reports showing that half of British Muslims face poverty and deprivation.

"At the same time, we are facing institutionalized Islamophobia."


Leave a Comment

Comments

No comments yet. Why don’t you start the discussion?

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *