'We Are Luton': Faith Leaders Unite Against Hate
Faith Matters column by David Jonathan, Grassroots & Luton Council of Faiths...
At a time of growing anxiety about the normalisation of racism, hatred and division, 'We Are Luton' Faith Leaders Gathering held at St Mary’s Church demonstrated solidarity, unity and a shared purpose.
Christian, Muslim, Jewish, Hindu, Sikh, Buddhist, Quaker and Bahá’í speakers reaffirmed Luton’s long‑standing tradition of interfaith cooperation, friendship and mutual care. Speakers were clear that hatred and fear must never discourage our town’s compassionate community action.
Mr Sujel Miah of the Luton Council of Mosques reflected on the fear many people feel amid rising political extremism, but said the gathering itself was a reminder of hope. “Luton is a town of many faces and traditions, but we are one community,” he said, emphasising a shared responsibility to challenge prejudice and stand with those targeted by hate.
Echoing this, Mr Ryad Khodabocus, Head of the Luton Council of Faith, stressed that Luton’s strength lies in relationships built over decades. He described the gathering as a form of “community‑based psychological first aid” — helping reduce fear, rebuild trust and remind people that they are not alone.
Christian leaders addressed the misinterpretation of Christianity by extremists, making clear that Christian faith calls for love of neighbour, justice, reconciliation and peace; it should not be used to fuel division, hostility or fear.
Mr Brian Green, President of the Luton United Synagogue highlighted the importance of reclaiming responsibility from polarised politics by building strong, honest relationships between communities.
Mr Harjot Singh, President of the Guru Nanak Gurdwara, described the gathering as “family”. Mr Colin Hall, a Quaker, shared that the spirit of togetherness “felt like Paradise”. Mr Yogesh Mistry, a Hindu, and Mr Janaka Alahapperuma, a Buddhist, spoke of compassion, coexistence and mindful relationships beyond labels. Mr Farzad Forghani, Bahá’í representative, described humankind as “flowers of one garden”.
A message from HM Lord Lieutenant of Bedfordshire, Susan Lousada, affirmed that Luton embodies the King’s vision of Britain as a “community of communities.” She thanked Luton’s faith leaders, Grassroots and the Luton Council of Faiths, for over 30 years’ work of building trust, harmony and shared identity.
The event was supported by Hope Not Hate, Near Neighbours, Feast Youth Project, Luton Council and the Bedfordshire Police.