Bastille Day attack in Nice
Statement from the Co-Chairs and Vice-Chairs of the Inter Faith Network for the UK
NEWS RELEASE
15 July 2016
Our neighbour France has again suffered an atrocity which leaves in its wake dozens dead and injured and a community and country in mourning. Our thoughts and prayers are with all affected by this cowardly and horrendous attack.
Such attacks are designed to rupture the fabric of civil society - not just in France but throughout Europe and beyond: to create suspicion, fear and hatred.
It is vital that in the UK we continue to work for a society which is marked by commitment to tackle tough issues with honesty and constructiveness and to work peacefully to resolve disagreement. Extreme voices and actions have no part in this.
Communities will, and must, continue to reject and stand against brutal violence where it is claimed by perpetrators to be in the name of their religion.
It is vital, too, that we support communities that may be rendered vulnerable by events overseas or at home. There must be no room for prejudice which singles out any community because of criminal actions carried out by a few in the name of its religion.
Our thoughts turn back to France and indeed to all countries around the world affected by terrorism. In the UK, many will be holding vigils and times of prayer. We join our prayers to theirs.
Notes for editors
- Press queries to Inter Faith Network: tel 020 7730 0410; email ifnet@interfaith.org.uk
- The Inter Faith Network for the UK www.interfaith.org.uk was founded in 1987 to advance public knowledge and mutual understanding of the teachings, traditions and practices of the different faith communities in Britain and to promote good relations between people of different faiths in this country. It works with its member bodies and others to carry out these aims.
- Member bodies of the Inter Faith Network include: national faith community representative bodies; national, regional and local inter faith bodies; and academic institutions and educational bodies concerned with inter faith issues. A list of member bodies can be found at http://www.interfaith.org.uk/members.
- A copy of this statement by the Co-Chairs and Vice-Chairs and of the Inter Faith Network’s policy on The Making of Network Statements can be found at http://interfaith.org.uk/resources/statements-and-messages.
