Religious leaders gather for 'March of Unity' at Southport Mosque

The march took place a month after violent riots broke out in the city.

More than a month after violent unrest in the town, religious leaders and community members gathered for a march of unity outside Southport Mosque. Violent unrest broke out in the seaside town a day after a stabbing on Monday, July 29, in which three schoolgirls were brutally killed.

Hundreds of people gathered outside the Southport mosque after false information was spread about the murder defendant, saying the unrest had links to far-right groups. On the night of Tuesday, July 30, bricks were thrown at police and the mosque was damaged, including windows being smashed, walls being torn down and a car parked outside being damaged.

After a police van was set on fire and several police officers were injured, those responsible for the chaos in the city are now being condemned. But now, more than a month later, the city's religious leaders gathered at the religious building on the corner of Sussex Road and St. Luke's Road to show solidarity after the unrest.

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The march was led by a group of community leaders, including Muslim, Jewish and Christian faith leaders, as well as local politicians, business owners, charities and members of the Southport community, stopping at the local synagogue and a church before sharing a meal together. Following the unrest in the town, it was members of the community who were on their feet at 6am on Wednesday to help clear rubble from the streets, rebuild walls and help those affected by the horrific scenes.

Organisers hoped the march would help inspire communities across the country to come together again as the country continues to try to rebuild community links. Following the unrest, a spokesperson for Southport Mosque said: “During this difficult time, we would like to extend our warmest thanks to the community for their support, kind words and solidarity. It has been heartwarming to receive compassion and help from people of different faiths and backgrounds who have helped us rebuild our mosque.”

“We would also like to express our deep gratitude to the police, emergency services and firefighters for their bravery and dedication in protecting our community. We call on the police, local authorities and the government to take stronger measures to stop the spread of violence across the country and prevent such incidents from happening again elsewhere.”