Abrar Platform on Islam in Europe Concludes Research Project and Hosts Conference on Muslim Reactions to LGBTQ+ Inclusion in UK RSE Curriculum
Abrar Platform on Islam in Europe Concludes Research Project and Hosts Conference on Muslim Reactions to LGBTQ+ Inclusion in UK RSE Curriculum
London, UK – The Abrar Platform on Islam in Europe announces the successful conclusion of its community research project and a special conference titled “RSE in UK Schools: A Muslim Perspective,” held on April 21, 2024. This event convened diverse attendees, speakers, and experts for insightful discussions on navigating LGBTQ+ inclusion in UK RSE curriculum.
The research identified two approaches among Muslim parents and educators:
- Avoid and Protect: Proposing solutions such as resorting to home schooling and even leaving the country to Muslim countries.
- Engage and Change: Advocating for empowering Muslim stakeholders in curriculum decisions, and urging for a more coordinated Muslim position, led by Muslim organisations.
Recommendations from the majority, favouring Engage and Change, included:
Proactive inclusion in government consultations. Objective education delivery, allowing children to form their own judgments. Limited use of provocative materials, with parental feedback. Opt-out options for children, safeguarding against discrimination. Listening to conservative/faith backgrounds without judgment. Proactive parent-school communication and qualified teacher instruction. Considering puberty for content appropriateness. Participants stressed the need for a coordinated Muslim position and Islamic guidelines to navigate this issue while preserving values, fostering community relations, and maintaining social cohesion.
The conference on April 21st aimed to address the inclusion of the LGBTQ+ agenda in the UK RSE curriculum from a Muslim perspective, featuring a comprehensive programme of presentations, panel discussions, and interactive sessions. Attendees had the opportunity to engage with experts and community leaders, share their perspectives, and explore potential solutions to the challenges at hand.
Highlights of the conference included:
Keynote address by Yusuf Patel, providing facts and data on the inclusion of the LGBTQ+ agenda in the UK RSE curriculum, followed by a lively Q&A session.
Presentation of findings from the APIE study on understanding the responses of Muslim families to LGBTQ+ inclusion in the UK school RSE curriculum.
Insights and testimonies from Muslim professionals, including Sheikh Ahmed Hanif and Ali Al Sabari, sparking conversations and open dialogue.
Exploration of the mental health aspect of the debate by Dr. Lauren Williams, offering valuable insights and prompting further discussion. discussed by Mr. Mustafa Field.
Final thoughts and recommendations with Shabbir Razvi and Mariam Hanif, consolidating the day and inspiring attendees to act and move forward with purpose.
“We are thrilled with the success of the conference,” said organisers, emphasising the platform’s commitment to promoting understanding and empowerment within Muslim communities.
The Abrar Platform on Islam in Europe/APIE extends its gratitude to all speakers, attendees, and partners who contributed to the success of the event. Moving forward, the platform remains committed to promoting dialogue, understanding, and empowerment within Muslim communities on public policy issues of critical importance.
For more information, visit APIE.
