The Catholic Association for Racial Justice (CARJ)

Statement On Racial & Religious Hatred

In the wake of the publication of cartoons offensive to Muslims, counter- demonstrations by moderate and extremist Muslim groups and the failure to successfully prosecute the BNP, the Catholic Association for Racial Justice (CARJ) has called for a common effort to address hate crime and build mutual understanding. CARJ is concerned that, without an effective approach to living with our differences, events like this can be a breeding ground for extremists to exploit.

In its statement, CARJ accepts that proposed legislation to address incitement to religious hatred was flawed. CARJ had supported that legislation because ‘this country, Europe and the wider world are going through rapid changes that challenge our ability to live peacefully with one another’. The statement goes on to say that ‘there are dangers in championing free speech to the point where it approaches an affirmation of a right to hate.’

CARJ goes on to identify four areas that should be given attention and support in the coming months in order to develop proactive strategies to promote understanding and cooperation:

§ inclusive hate crime legislation,

§ new Commission for Integration & Cohesion

§ local churches and faith communities must be bridge builders

§ faith schools must make an effort to be a positive presence in segregated areas.

CARJ is an independent charity, established in 1984 to support Catholics of all backgrounds to work together for racial justice. It is also an Agency of the Catholic Bishops Conference of England & Wales.

Contact:
Margaret Ann Fisken, Chairperson

Catholic Association for Racial Justice
9 Henry Road
London N4

020 8802 8080

Full Text of Statement Follows on next page