November is Islamophobia Awareness Month, which puts an emphasis on raising awareness and understanding of the discrimination and challenges faced by Muslims worldwide. Founded by advocacy organisations and supported by educational institutions, local councils, community groups and others, Islamophobia Awareness Month aims to challenge stereotypes, dispel misinformation, and foster more inclusive and united communities. 

Islamophobia, or prejudice against Islam and Muslims, is rooted in historical, social and political factors that have shaped public perceptions. Often, it manifests as misconceptions that link Islam unfairly to extremism or violence, despite many Muslims practicing their faith peacefully. Islamophobia affects nearly every aspect of life for Muslims, from employment and education to safety and freedom to practice their faith in peace. 

I believe that media portrayals significantly contribute to these stereotypes. Many individuals form their understanding of Islam through television and print media, which often emphasise sensationalised stories that portray Islam negatively. Islamophobia Awareness Month seeks to address these issues by promoting narratives that accurately represent Muslim communities and their valuable contributions to society. 

As someone who is keen to promote cohesion, diversity, inclusion and integration in communities, I am proudly part of Leeds Trinity’s Black and Minority Ethnicities (BAME) Network, and previously worked as a Community Ambassador for the University – a role in which I facilitated opportunities for Policing students to not only learn about different cultures, but develop relationships with diverse local communities. 

I am also the founder of the Professional Muslim Institute (PMI), which supports the achievement and advancement of professional Muslims in the UK. As part of this, I regularly organise events that bring professional Muslims together to network in safe spaces, and debate and discuss issues that impact community. 

For Islamophobia Awareness Month this year, the PMI will welcome Baroness Sayeeda Warsi, Britain’s first Muslim Cabinet minister, for an in conversation and networking dinner on Thursday 28 November at Aagrah Midpoint in Bradford, where she will discuss her powerful new book, Muslims Don’t Matter. In her book, Baroness Warsi uses personal reflections and political insights to critique the rising anti-Muslim sentiment and urges a unified response to this growing prejudice. She also highlights the tragic rise in anti-Muslim racism, including the recent murders of three Muslim grandfathers, each targeted solely for their faith, and examines the far-right violence, the 2024 summer riots, and the surge of public hostility toward Muslims during the Gaza conflict, illustrating how Islamophobia has become normalised across media, politics and entertainment.  

Baroness Warsi describes Islamophobia as “Britain’s blind spot” and “one of the last acceptable forms of bigotry, perpetuated by divisive narratives from commentators, think tanks, and other influential voices.” I am looking forward to hearing from Baroness Warsi later this month as she explores the impact of this prejudice, and the urgent need for unity, understanding and collective action against the rising tide of hate. 

Islamophobia Awareness Month serves as a reminder of the importance of education, dialogue, and policy reform in creating societies where everyone feels valued and protected, and the event won’t shy away from crucial conversations about British Muslim identity, resilience and the shared ambition for a more inclusive and just society, where diversity is celebrated, and all communities can thrive together.  

Dr Javed Bashir is a Senior Lecturer in Policing at Leeds Trinity University.