PRESS RELEASE 3 February 2006
PBM response to publication of caricature portraying Prophet Mohammed (pbuh) as a terrorist
PBM is saddened by the response of some members of the press to the recent controversy around the cartoons in Denmark, but respects the rights of the press to freedom of expression.
We believe that the Danish cartoons were in bad taste and by reprinting them some newspapers have given fuel to fundamentalist voices which accuse the west of engaging in a war against Islam. We are also seriously concerned by the publication of these images on the website of one of the far right organisations in the UK, which indicates that extreme elements on both sides are trying to exploit the already volatile situation for their benefit and wish to further create divisions between Muslims and the western culture.
Dr Shaaz Mahboob a PBM spokesman said "Quite apart from upsetting and humiliating Muslims, who hold the Prophet Mohammed (pbuh) very dear, we are concerned by the implication the images one of which implies that that the Prophet Mohammed (pbuh) was a terrorist. In doing so, the majority of law-abiding and tolerant Muslims - are demonised for following a man who is portrayed in this way.
Although it is forbidden for Muslims to pictorially display the Prophet Mohammed (pbuh), it should be remembered that living in a pluralistic and secular society Muslims cannot expect those who do not follow Islam to respect it's boundaries. However, we would hope that the media, which has a
responsibility to the public, would be more articulate in its criticisms of Islam and Muslims and not resort to inappropriate stereotyping".
NOTES TO EDITORS:
What is PBM:
PBM is a group of London based liberal minded Muslims who have decided to establish a platform to provide a voice for progressive British Muslims who feel unrepresented by the existing faith-based Muslim groups. We each have a cultural identity as Muslims that is important to us. We believe there is no single definitive version of Islam and that each individual must decide how best to live his or her life.
Who do we represent:
We do not purport to represent any particular group(s) of British Muslims. We speak only for ourselves but believe, based on our personal experiences, that we reflect the views of significant numbers of Muslims in Britain.
What is our purpose?
To articulate the views of those Muslims, who consider themselves to be British, integrated into mainstream society and who have a cultural identity as Muslims, in the mainstream media who feel unrepresented by the existing faith based organisations.
What do we not do:
We will not attack or denigrate other Muslim groups although we will promote our values in a positive and vigorous manner. We will not decide what is or is not Islamic. We are not Muslim scholars and do not feel qualified (or, believe it is appropriate) to judge others.
What is our aim:
To advocate:
- equality in the Muslim community, especially between men and women, but also address equality issues based on sexual preference and disability
- Muslim integration into mainstream British society whilst maintaining an Islamic identity
- freedom of speech
- respect for all faiths
- human rights and democracy
1) PBM was launched on 10 November 2005 in the House of Commons to voice the views of progressive British Muslims who feel unrepresented by the existing faith based groups. The launch of the group was supported by cross party MPs and peers.
2) See website- www.pbm.org.uk
For further information, please email mail.pbm@gmail.com or enquiries@pbm.org.uk or contact Dr Shaaz Mahboob on (07884) 473491
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