Faith leaders in Buckinghamshire stand together against violence
The community is promoting peace, regardless of background or religion
In the wake of recent violence and unrest, faith leaders across Buckinghamshire have united to promote peace and interfaith community living.
Protesters believed to be linked to the far right planned to march the streets of towns and cities across the country over the past week, including in High Wycombe, but minimal disruption was reported.
The violence was sparked by misinformation spread online following the murders of three children in Southport.
Rabbi Neil Janes, who represents the Jewish community in South Buckinghamshire and West Hertfordshire, emphasised the importance of collaboration among faith communities to counteract the spread of hate and misinformation.
He said: "We came together to issue a statement to say we wanted to work together for the values we all share, against hate, to stamp out extremism."
"I think the best advice I've heard was from Imam Hussein, which is stay at home and don't get involved unless you are going to be part of the collective acts of joining together to make our society better, working together, sharing in peace and in collaboration and cohesion, then don't go out onto the streets, don't get involved in what are effectively riots."
"It's totally unacceptable."
Despite the growing concerns, Rabbi Janes reassured that his community, while alert, does not feel more unsafe than before.
He, however, emphasised on the importance of standing together regardless of faith or background, and warned of misinformation spreading on social media platforms which can fuel hateful discourse and encourage violence.
He said "When you open the door, when you get off social media, when you meet the person who lives next door, the shopkeeper, your doctor, your nurse, they all just want the same thing. They really do want to live a peaceful life."
"Regardless of one's position on migration and immigration, asylum seekers are some of the most vulnerable members of society. We need to do all we can to ensure that these human beings are recognised and remembered for their humanity."
The message from Rabbi Janes and other local faith leaders is clear: unity and peaceful coexistence must prevail over division and hatred.