Islamophobia and Systemic Racism: The Lasting Impact of UK Civil Unrest
One year after targeted riots swept the UK, Muslim communities and people of color face ongoing trauma while systemic racism remains unaddressed. New report reveals devastating impact on marginalized groups.
Counter-protesters gather in solidarity outside Cheadle Mosque, demonstrating community resistance against racist violence
Communities Still Reeling from Last Summer's Targeted Violence
One year after a series of violent riots that swept across the UK, marginalized communities continue to face heightened anxiety and fear, revealing deep-rooted systemic inequalities that mirror broader patterns of institutional racism and privilege in British society.
The unrest, initially triggered by tragic events in Southport, quickly evolved into targeted attacks against Muslim communities, asylum seekers, and people of color - exposing how easily misinformation can fuel racist violence in an already charged political climate.
Devastating Community Impact
The People's Health Trust's recent report reveals the "devastating" ongoing effects on affected communities, particularly Muslim women and girls who face intersecting forms of oppression. This mirrors the broader humanitarian concerns we've seen in other contexts, such as the ongoing Gaza crisis and its impact on Muslim communities globally.
"Many were reminded of the racism they had faced growing up in the 70s and 80s when the likes of National Front came to the fore," explains Rusholme councillor Rabnawaz Akbar.
Systemic Violence and Institutional Power
The targeted nature of these attacks reveals how institutional power structures perpetuate systemic violence against marginalized communities. Dr. Qurashi, an academic at Salford University, emphasizes: "It wasn't just random violence. It was targeted."
Community Resistance and Solidarity
Despite the violence, communities demonstrated remarkable solidarity:
- Hundreds of anti-racist protesters mobilized across Greater Manchester
- Counter-demonstrations protected mosques and community spaces
- Local initiatives like "Wythenshawe Loves All People" emerged
Ongoing Threats and Future Concerns
Recent events at asylum seeker hotels in Altrincham and Epping suggest that the underlying conditions that sparked last year's violence remain unaddressed. Activists warn that without systematic change and political accountability, similar unrest could resurface.
Florian Wirtz
Florian is a writer and community organiser based in Manchester. Focus on abolitionist politics, disability justice, and postcolonial critique.