Thursday 22 July 2010

Connected Histories - Contribution of Muslim Communities to WWII



17th July to 4th October BMAG Community Gallery







Young People explore contribution of Muslim communities to WWII.  Muslim and non-Muslim groups look at key events and themes through history workshops, debates and discussions, then creatively explore these through video, sound, artwork, working with Vanley Burke, Sima Gonsai reflecting on aspects of their own lives, experiences and perceptions.

Opened by Rita and Brian, 'The past casting a light on the present', then Neelam (third from left, Vanley is first on left) a participant, blew everyone away with her speech:  'I am British, I wear a Hijab, and I am as much a  part of our union jack, our history...next time I will wear a poppy with pride.'
It is vital this message is heard, across all our society, all the more poignant coming from a young, hijab wearing muslim woman.  Listening to young people animated, focused, eloquent and determined can be quite moving,  maybe because across our media, in our society, young people rarely do have the opportunity to be heard, and even less often taken seriously.

Definiitely worth a visit.



1 comment:

  1. Fantastic! I hope many young people see this. It's a shame it's not going to be shown throughout Black History Month, as Noor Khan is often studied during October.

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