BradfordToday welcomes letters to the editor at [email protected] or via the website. Please include your full name, daytime phone number and address (for verification of authorship, not publication).
I am writing to urge the Bradford council to consider the long-term impact of its decisions when shaping policies.
The council should reconsider its stance and uphold Bradford’s long-standing reputation for respecting diversity and embracing cultural inclusivity. Supporting such events reinforces the city’s commitment to unity, harmony, and the shared values that make it a thriving and welcoming community.
The Ahmadiyya Muslim Jama’at is a peace-loving community with a long history of humanitarian work, welfare initiatives, and peace projects. The Jama’at’s convention last year had a profoundly positive impact on Bradford residents in numerous ways.
Rejecting the event based on concerns over agricultural land use is unwarranted, especially given the assurance that the land would be fully restored afterward.
No reasonable person can overlook the invaluable opportunity this event provided for Bradford’s diverse communities to come together and celebrate unity or the significant economic boost this event brought to the area. Events like these foster inclusivity, creating a platform for individuals from all backgrounds to connect, learn from one another, and strengthen communal bonds. In an increasingly globalized world, such gatherings are vital for promoting mutual respect, understanding, and a sense of belonging among all residents.
As for the organization and management of last year’s event, the majority of residents — including those living in close proximity to the venue — praised its smooth execution. While concerns about increased traffic or temporary disruptions to cellphone services may have arisen, these are logistical challenges that can be effectively addressed rather than being used as justification to reject future events.
The council must recognize the broader social and economic benefits of such gatherings and ensure that its policies reflect a forward-thinking, inclusive approach that serves the best interests of the entire community.
Tahira Chaudhry
Bradford
