New mayor calls for 'dialogue over division' to build strong communities and celebrate Luton's rich diversity

Labour Beech Hill councillor Javed Hussain formally became first citizen of the borough at a full council meeting last night (Tuesday, June 30).

He received the robes and chain of office at the town’s annual mayoral investiture ceremony, with Labour Central councillor Fatima Begum as his deputy.

Councillor Hussain described it as “a very special and emotional moment for me”, as well as “a tremendous honour and deeply humbling”.

“Luton is more than just the town we live in,” he told the meeting. “It’s home for me, and where lives are built, dreams begin, families grow and where communities come together,” he explained.

“It’s a place shaped by ordinary people doing extraordinary things every day. Our town is rich in diversity with different, cultures, backgrounds, languages and faiths.

“Some may see diversity as difference. I see it as our greatest strength. We share something powerful, our humanity our values and our desire to belong. That’s why I want to be a mayor for all communities.

No matter what your faith, background, age, ethnicity or postcode, I want every resident to know this: you matter, you belong. I want to be a mayor who listens, welcomes and who brings people together.

“At a time when the world can often feel divided, arguably our greatest responsibility is to strengthen what connects us. We need more understanding, compassion, conversation and more unity.

“Strong communities are built when we know our neighbours, when we look out for one another and when we choose dialogue over division. I believe deeply in building resilient communities, which can face challenges together and emerge stronger, kinder and more united.

“If my mayoral year can bring a little more understanding between people, I will consider that a meaningful service,” he said. “I’m honoured to support three charities during my term as mayor.

“The Hygiene Bank reminds us dignity begins with life’s basic necessities. Nobody should have to face hygiene poverty in silence.

“Keech Hospice represents compassion in its purist (form), caring for individuals and families during life’s most difficult moments with extraordinary love and dignity.

“Discover Islam reflects the importance of education, understanding and building bridges between communities.

“These charities are close to my heart because they represent values which I deeply believe in, dignity, compassion, service and understanding.

“I also want to use this year to continue promoting Luton as the welcoming town I know it to be. Sometimes people speak about the town without really understanding Luton, but we all know better.

“We know the generosity of our people, the strength of our communities and the kindness which exists here. I’m proud of Luton, its residents, and to represent a town which continues to rise, adapt and move forward.

“This role is about service, giving back to the town which has given so much to all of us,” he added. “As your mayor, I make this promise. I’ll serve with humility, I’ll lead with compassion, represent with integrity and work every day to bring people together.

“Let us continue building a town where everyone feels welcome, valued and respected. A Luton where our diversity remains our strength, a Luton where our community feels it belongs.

“Thank you for your trust and support, and for allowing me the honour of serving you as mayor.”