FOREIGN POLICY, EXTREMISM and DEMONISATION

[moeen yaseen]

The Muslim Community: Foreign policy, 'Extremism' & Demonisation

Hizb ut-Tahrir Britain invites you to this seminar following the events of recent weeks: high profile arrests and charges brought over alleged terror plots; debates about the role of foreign policy in 'radicalisation', and the role of 'Islamic extremism'. Against this backdrop there is a wider concern of demonisation of Islam felt by the community and a sense of propaganda that fuels a false fear of Islam and Muslims in the wider society. In the wake of this, the government has established a Commission on Integration and Community Cohesion which clearly points the finger at Islam and Muslims as the source of the current problems. Where is this all heading? How can the community respond?

The Muslim Community
Foreign Policy, 'Extremism' & Demonisation

Talk 1: A Community Under Question
Speaker: Jamal Harwood
(Chairman – Hizb ut-Tahrir UK Executive Committee)

Since the dramatic arrests of the alleged 'transatlantic bombers', the finger of blame has been squarely pointed at the Muslim Community. The media and government alike have rounded upon Muslims, questioning their loyalty and intentions. This talk examines who is really culpable? And why is the government insistent on avoiding discussion about foreign policy?

Talk 2: The Propaganda Myths of Bush and Blair
Speaker: Dr Imran Waheed
(Media Representative – Hizb ut-Tahrir Britain)

President Bush and Prime Minister Blair in their pursuit of justifying their war have embarked upon an extraordinary campaign of black propaganda, disinformation and rewriting of history. We explore these myths and how the media are willing carriers, presenting lies as fact.

Talk 3: Forming a United Muslim Community Response
Speaker: Dr Abdul Wahid

If our community is to confront and thwart the plans of the US and UK governments, we must possess a united response. This presentation proposes the key features of our response, addressing in particular the need to address the Non-Muslim population with the Islamic Da’wa and developing strong relationships with the people of the West so as provide an antidote to media and government propaganda.

Talk 4: Patience and Reliance upon Allah at Times of Adversity
Speaker: Maajid Nawaz

At times of adversity our strength comes from calling upon Allah (swt), relying on Him (swt) alone (tawakkul) and having Patience (sabr). This talk examines these vital Islamic ideas and how understanding them will create a strong and confident community.

Saturday 2nd September – 5:30pm
Friends Meeting House, Euston Road, London (opposite Euston Station)

For further information please contact 07830 308224 - For press enquiries contact 07074 192400 - Web: www.hizb.org.uk - Email enquiries: info@hizb.org.uk

[moeen yaseen]

London Seminar –

"The Muslim Community: Foreign Policy, 'Extremism' and Demonisation"


London, UK, August 29 – Following the events of recent weeks which have seen high profile arrests and charges brought over alleged terrorist plots, debate about the role of foreign policy in "radicalisation" and the establishment of a Commission on Integration and Community Cohesion, Hizb ut-Tahrir Britain, the Islamic political party, will convene a seminar in London on Saturday [2nd September] to examine these issues. The Central London seminar will be attended by one thousand delegates from across the UK .

In recent weeks, the debate has once again focused on what 'radicalises' Muslims. Instead of looking at the foreign policy of Western governments towards the Muslim world – including illegal occupation and supporting dictators - and its effect in creating anger, the government has sought to shift the blame onto the Muslim community. Some politicians, supported by certain media outlets, have accused mosques and Islamic schools of 'radicalising'. Others have resorted to inducing fear amongst the people of the West by talking of "extreme ideology", "Islamic fascism" and the "perversion of Islam". Any discussion of the legitimate political grievances is ruthlessly suppressed while distrust of Muslims and Islam is perpetuated by a campaign of black propaganda and misinformation.

Imran Waheed, a media representative of Hizb ut-Tahrir Britain , said, "This seminar will examine recent events, explore the wealth of propaganda directed towards the Muslim community and delineate a path for our community to follow. There is an increasing need for our community to refute the propaganda campaign that suppresses the legitimate political grievances of the Muslim world, silences criticism of colonialist foreign policy and brands Islam an 'evil ideology'."

The seminar will take place between 6 p.m. and 9.30 p.m. on Saturday 2nd September 2006 at Friend's Meeting House, Euston Road , London .


CONTACT:

Hizb ut-Tahrir Britain
Email: press@hizb.org.uk
Web: www.hizb.org.uk/pressnew
Phone: 07074-192400