Statement in commemoration of the Finsbury Park terror attack of 19 June, 2017

“Today, on the third anniversary of the Finsbury Park terror attack, we once again stand together as one community to condemn the hatred that fuelled this horrendous act, and to reaffirm our commitment to building a community of understanding, mutual support, and love.

“Today we remember the life of Makram Ali, a much-loved husband, father, grandfather and friend. Our thoughts are also with the many victims injured in and affected by the attack, including our own Mayor Consort, Yassin Hersi.

“In a time when the spotlight is shining more intensely than ever on the injustice and inequality that continues to exist in our society, we stand united in our determination to take action to end the systemic racial injustices and hatred that blights our communities in Islington and beyond.  We will continue to support each other, celebrate our diversity and educate our children to do the same.

“Three years ago, the Finsbury Park terrorist set out to divide our communities with their abhorrent far-right extremist views. They failed. Instead, they brought us closer together, standing united as one Islington to say there is and will never be a place for hate and racism in our communities.”

Rakhia Ismail, Mayor of Islington Council

Richard Watts, Leader of Islington Council

Jeremy Corbyn, Member of Parliament for Islington North

Toufik Kacimi, Chief Executive of Muslim Welfare House

Mohammed Kozbar, Chair of Finsbury Park Mosque