In London, a new model of community and connection was born during last year's Ramadan. Hundreds of Muslim Londoners came together every night to build inclusive spaces that reflected the world they want to live in – spaces where diversity was celebrated, women were empowered, and queerness was welcome.
Communities like Ramadan Space, which started on WhatsApp, successfully navigated venue negotiations and hosted sold-out iftar events throughout the month. The Inclusive Mosque Initiative organized feminist prayers, while Shukr brought together Muslim creatives at a trendy London venue (even rappers Krept and Konan attended). Faith & Flow workshops combined movement with meditation, providing an oasis of wellness for those seeking spiritual connection.
The energy was palpable, with venues like Palestine House becoming hubs for solidarity, spirituality, and community. New initiatives emerged, such as Karrom Club and Kismet Cafe, further embodying the inclusive spirit of last year's Ramadan. Charity events and fundraising campaigns became integral parts of these gatherings.
These grassroots spaces were a breath of fresh air in an increasingly divided society, where Islamophobia had reached a boiling point. But now, news that Ramadan Space's venue has been pulled out this year threatens to derail the progress made by these inclusive communities.
This cancellation matters, not just for Muslims who have built these spaces but for everyone seeking more compassionate and empathetic connections. In an era marked by division and loneliness, allowing such community-building initiatives to wither away would be a loss for us all.
As Ramadan approaches once again, it's crucial that we recognize the importance of creating – rather than merely tolerating – inclusive spaces where people can come together. We must make space for those who yearn for connection, empathy, and understanding. The alternative is to allow these moments of softness to disappear, leaving us with even greater divisions and social isolation.
Communities like Ramadan Space, which started on WhatsApp, successfully navigated venue negotiations and hosted sold-out iftar events throughout the month. The Inclusive Mosque Initiative organized feminist prayers, while Shukr brought together Muslim creatives at a trendy London venue (even rappers Krept and Konan attended). Faith & Flow workshops combined movement with meditation, providing an oasis of wellness for those seeking spiritual connection.
The energy was palpable, with venues like Palestine House becoming hubs for solidarity, spirituality, and community. New initiatives emerged, such as Karrom Club and Kismet Cafe, further embodying the inclusive spirit of last year's Ramadan. Charity events and fundraising campaigns became integral parts of these gatherings.
These grassroots spaces were a breath of fresh air in an increasingly divided society, where Islamophobia had reached a boiling point. But now, news that Ramadan Space's venue has been pulled out this year threatens to derail the progress made by these inclusive communities.
This cancellation matters, not just for Muslims who have built these spaces but for everyone seeking more compassionate and empathetic connections. In an era marked by division and loneliness, allowing such community-building initiatives to wither away would be a loss for us all.
As Ramadan approaches once again, it's crucial that we recognize the importance of creating – rather than merely tolerating – inclusive spaces where people can come together. We must make space for those who yearn for connection, empathy, and understanding. The alternative is to allow these moments of softness to disappear, leaving us with even greater divisions and social isolation.
just think about all the good that came out of last year's Ramadan community events... those spaces were truly special 
they brought people together from different backgrounds and created a sense of belonging 
can't let them be taken away from us this time around 
need to find new ways to keep these inclusive initiatives alive 
london's ramadan vibe last yr was literally the most beautiful thing i've ever seen - all these muslim communities comin together 2 build spaces that celebrate diversity & empowerment... it's not just about muslims, its about creatin spaces where ppl can come 2gthr & feel seen & heard 
that's not just a loss 4 muslims, thats a loss 4 every1 who needs community & connection... we cant afford 2 let these spaces dry up & leave us with even more divisions & loneliness 
Can't let progress on inclusivity go down the drain 
over a venue change 
it just goes to show how quickly our collective progress can be undone if we dont keep pushing for more inclusive spaces where ppl feel seen & heard 
so let's make a conscious effort to support these initiatives this yr & create even more spaces for connection, community & love 
it's so important that we keep creating spaces for connection & community, especially during Ramadan when people are craving it the most 
. What's wrong with celebrating diversity, empowering women, and welcoming queerness? It seems like we're just going back to the old ways of segregation and exclusion 
.
These initiatives brought so much energy and positivity to London, and they were really making a difference. The way women were empowered, queerness was celebrated... it's not just about Muslims coming together, but about creating a more compassionate society for everyone. 
this news about Ramadan Space's venue being pulled out is a total bummer 
Those grassroots initiatives like Ramadan Space, Shukr, Faith & Flow, and Karrom Club showed us that even in the midst of societal division, we can still build something truly remarkable together. 