Brent unites for Islamophobia Awareness Month

Step into an evening of culture, connection, and celebration on Monday 25 November, as Brent’s Civic Centre Grand Hall transforms into a vibrant showcase of Islamic art, food, music, and dance. From 5.30pm to 7.30pm, residents are invited to join Celebrate, Educate, Empower – Brent’s flagship event marking Islamophobia Awareness Month 2025.

Islamophobia Awareness Month (IAM) is a month-long campaign held every November. This year’s theme, “Flip the Script,” aims to challenge stereotypes and negative narratives surrounding Islam and Muslim communities by amplifying authentic voices and real-life stories.

Brent’s uplifting event will bring communities together through a rich mix of live performances, cultural stalls, and thought-provoking discussion. Enjoy the rhythmic energy of the Fursaan Dabke Dance Group and captivating demonstrations of calligraphy. Guests can also savour traditional hot food, meet local organisations, and explore initiatives that promote understanding, solidarity, and inclusion across Brent.

Cllr Mili Patel, Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Finance & Resources, said: "Islamophobia Awareness Month is an important time for reflection and collective action. It gives us the opportunity to shine a light on the experiences of Muslim communities, challenge harmful stereotypes, and reaffirm our shared commitment to equality and respect for all.

“Here in Brent, we’re proud of our diversity - it’s what makes our borough so vibrant and unique. But we also know that the path to inclusion requires action. Brent Council will always work hard to tackle hate and discrimination in all its forms, and to bring our residents along with us as we do so. We all have a part to play in speaking up and giving a voice to others, as well as championing new support services like the British Muslim Trust Helpline, which ensure any incidents are taken seriously.

“Intolerance and hate have no place here in Brent. We will always have more in common than that which divides us, and I look forward to celebrating that throughout the next month."

A highlight of the evening will be a panel discussion chaired by Cllr Ishma Moeen, featuring barrister and broadcaster, Hashi Mohamed, representatives from the Met Police, and community leaders. Together, they will explore lived experiences of Islamophobia and discuss how Brent can continue to stand united against hate while celebrating the borough’s rich diversity.

🎟 Tickets and details: Celebrate, Educate, Empower: Brent Islamophobia Awareness Month Tickets, Tue, Nov 25, 2025 at 5:30 PM | Eventbrite

In the lead-up to the main event, residents can also attend a special screening of the acclaimed film Brides at the Lexi Cinema on Wednesday 20 November, followed by a Q&A with actress Safiyya Ingar. The film offers a moving exploration of identity and belonging – a perfect reflection of the month’s message of empathy and understanding.

🎥 Tickets: The Lexi Cinema | Islamophobia Awareness Month: Brides + Q&A

As part of this year’s Islamophobia Awareness Month, Brent is also highlighting the launch of the British Muslim Trust (BMT) Helpline, a new national service offering support to victims of anti-Muslim hate. The free and confidential helpline can be accessed via phone, online form, email, WhatsApp, or live chat, and is staffed by trained Muslim advisors to ensure cultural sensitivity and understanding. The service provides a safe space to report hate incidents and seek tailored advice and assistance.

For more information, visit the British Muslim Trust Helpline website: British Muslim Trust | Empowering Communities Across the UK