Joint statement from Leeds Faith Forum

The Leeds Faith Forum is led by a council of representatives from different faiths including - Baha’i, Buddhist, Christian, Hindu, Jain, Jewish, Muslim, and Sikh.

The forum provides an opportunity for all faiths to unite at a time when it is imperative that we create and maintain good relations in our communities, working closely with Leeds City Council.

All members of the Leeds Faith Forum are united in saying:

“We are all shocked and horrified by the bombings in London and share heartfelt care and compassion for the victims, their loved ones and friends. Attacks on the innocent can never be justified by any argument - religious or secular.

The faiths we represent are all clear about the sanctity of human life. That sanctity has been viciously ignored by these attacks. Solidarity amongst all faiths and cultures is vital at a time of sorrow and anger and we must continue to stand firmly together to show that what unites us is stronger than the evil that tries to divide us.

Our faith will not be shaken - we will not be shaken and that stance should not waiver because of the heinous acts of a few misguided individuals.

In Leeds, we celebrate a strong tradition of harmonious multi-cultural relations in our communities. Our multi-ethnic, multi-faith communities help to make up the majority of this city's positive-minded, good-hearted people.

We commend and embrace the continuing efforts to further enhance Leeds as a city where all our communities can grow side by side, with respect and understanding. We pledge ourselves to remain true to this goal, and to work together to make it an enduring reality. We ask the people of Leeds to join us in condemning the recent attacks in London and ask that we all work together to maintain positive community relations in this city that is our home.”

Leeds Faith Forum can be contacted on 0113 245 4700 or lff@leedschurchinstitute.org

18-07-05