Author: Taj Ali
\ Published on: 01/09/2025 | 00:00:00

AI Summary:
\ The South Essex Islamic Centre in Basildon was defaced shortly before midnight on Thursday. Red crosses were daubed across its walls alongside the words “Christ is King” and “This is England” Community leaders condemned the attack. Vandalism took place amid protests against asylum seekers and a social media campaign dubbed #OperationRaisetheColours. In recent weeks, those heeding the call have pinned the flag of England bearing Saint George’s Cross and Union Jacks to motorway bridges, lampposts, roundabouts and some shops. Fani in Basildon said governments fail to confront economic grievances while scapegoating minorities ultimately collapse. Fani said: “It’s the fear factor. They [media channels] put terror in the hearts of people when it comes to Muslims. I want to show people we are just like them. We’re just human.” In the wake of the vandalism, mosque leaders encouraged worshippers to attend prayers in greater numbers. Maryam*, a Muslim woman who lives in Basildon, lamented the “attack on the Muslim community” as she emphasised that it reflects a dark climate. Police data is yet to confirm a link or rise in racist attacks, but locally reported incidents tell a troubling story. "It has affected my mental health... It’s created a lot of trauma and barriers to simply living a normal life," says Maryam. Isolated incidents against individuals often go unreported.

Original: 1094 words
\ Summary: 218 words
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