An Arts and Culture Response to Recent Racist and Islamophobic riots in England.
“Beyond Hate” - Arts and Culture Response to Recent Racist and Islamophobic riots in England.
Registration details for each event are below:
Muslim Artists, Creatives and Cultural Organisations across England
Thursday 5th September, 1.00pm to 3.00pm
Online or in-person - book here ↗
Global Majority, Artists and Cultural Organisations across England
All Artists and Cultural Organisations across England
In the past few weeks England has grappled with a significant rise in far-right extremism, racist violence, anti-immigration fervour, and Islamophobic attacks. Whilst some have attempted to attribute these riots to the horrific murder of three children, it is evident that these events have threatened the fabric of our diverse society and now demand an urgent, robust and thoughtful response from all sectors, particularly the arts and culture community.
Recognising the unique power of creative expression to challenge narratives of hate and build bridges of understanding, The Leap organised two meetings of the arts and culture sector in Bradford attended by over fifty arts organisations and artists. Several community focused meetings have also taken place in Middlesbrough which was particularly impacted. Subsequently, we have been requested to broaden the conversation, to convene and connect many more voices that are affected and have experience and potential solutions that can help with tackling the immediate and longer-term challenges resulting from the rise of hateful ideologies.
The arts and culture sector in England has a proud history of confronting and responding to societal challenges, using creativity to reflect, resist, and reimagine. In recent years, many artists and cultural institutions have actively engaged in combating racism, advocating for migrant rights, and standing against anti-Muslim hatred. However, the intensity and scale of the 2024 riots have highlighted both the successes and limitations of these efforts. While there have been powerful artistic responses that have galvanised communities and fostered dialogue, the persistence and escalation of far-right ideologies suggest that much more needs to be done. The Leap, Borderlands and Bradford Council are organising a series of national on-line and physical gatherings across England dedicated to addressing these urgent issues.
"Beyond Hate" is designed to take stock of the existing responses from the arts sector, while also pushing the boundaries of what can be achieved through collective action and creativity. This series of events will feature a range of on-line events and roundtable discussions all aimed at critically examining the role of the arts in this fraught moment. We will explore how artists and cultural institutions, including funders and philanthropists can more effectively confront hate, support affected communities, and contribute to a broader movement for social justice and national unity.
This series is not only a call to action but also an opportunity for reflection. By gathering artists, cultural leaders, and activists, "Beyond Hate" seeks to build on past efforts, learn from them, and chart a path forward that is more impactful, inclusive, and resilient.
We invite you to join us in this critical exploration, as we collectively navigate the challenges and reaffirm the arts as a vital force for change in the face of adversity.
It is crucial that we hold safe spaces where everyone can feel free to speak openly and explore the issues that are important to them. For this reason, and acting on the advice from various groups, events are split across different interest groups.
Events will be held online, with attendance in person available in Bradford and Middlesbrough. We look forward to welcoming wherever you are in the country.
Background to the event organisers:
The Leap – www.the-leap.org.uk
Borderlands – www.borderlandscreative.com
Bradford Council – www.bradford.gov.uk
For further information or support to create an event for your community, please contact Zulf@the-leap.org.uk or s.khan@tees.ac.uk