Press Release

6th October 2009

Manchester communities say NO to extremism

Manchester Council for Community Relations (MCCR) is joining hands with the Hope, not Hate campaign in condemning extremism which is being brought to our city by EDL (English Defence League) who are congregating in Manchester on Saturday 10th October 2009.

This action by EDL is designed to create divisions within our communities. The communities are standing firmly together with the civic and faith leaders to maintain the community cohesion built up by generations in Manchester.

The Chief Executive of Manchester Council for Community Relations(MCCR) Khan Moghal said, "The previous actions by EDL have resulted in unsavoury scenes. We are asking the people of Manchester not to be provoked by the EDL and their cohorts, and go about their usual activities. We also urge community activists not to be drawn into confrontation with the EDL and to avoid the demonstration. All the diverse communities have a stake in our city, and they will not tolerate any-one attempting to violate this. We will continue to strengthen the bonds between all communities and defeat extremists whether political-minded or faith-based.”

Members of communities will congregate for a vigil on Friday 9th October 2009 at Manchester Cathedral in celebration of diversity and tolerance in Manchester.

For further information, please contact:
Nasrullah Khan Moghal (Chief Executive) on 0161-227-8708 or 07818-453546 or Atiha Chaudry (Chair – Manchester BME Network) on 07780-514143

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Notes to editors:

1. MCCR (Manchester Council for Community Relations) works towards the elimination of racial discrimination and promotion of Racial Equality, Equal Opportunities, Diversity and Community Cohesion in the Manchester City Region.
2. Its core activities are supported by Manchester City Council.
3. MCCR’s webpage www.mccr.org.uk