A Barnet Multi Faith Forum (BMFF) Statement
The Lionesses have truly captured our imagination as their success has radiated well beyond stadiums, resonating deeply across communities where sport has become a powerful catalyst for social cohesion and may well act as a social glue. In Barnet, whose population is a mosaic of cultures, nationalities, and backgrounds, we have been inspired by their resilience, success, strength of character and fortitude.
The visibility of the Lionesses and Maro Itoje, the Saracens and British Lions Captain, have accelerated the breaking down of long-standing barriers, whereby old myths about gender, ethnicity and race are challenged and replaced with great stories of teamwork and mutual respect.
While the Lionesses’ success has been a catalyst for positive change, they also found the courage to stand firm and united not just against their opponents, but the irrational racial and verbal abuses they were exposed to on their triumphant European journey.
Barnet Multi Faith Forum (BMFF), with its partners, Barnet Council, Middlesex University, Blue Light Responders, Community Organisations and Asylum Groups, have all worked proactively to create safe spaces for dialogue and mutual support. Interfaith gatherings and events, peace walks and vigils, community forums and concerts, provide safe platforms for open conversation, emphasising empathy and a shared humanity above division.
The Borough's response during difficult times demonstrates how collective action and compassion can fortify communal bonds, ensuring that differences do not fracture the social fabric but rather enhance its resilience. The Lionesses’ achievements have turbocharged this spirit of connection, offering new role models to inspire solidarity and a shared purpose. They stood firm in calling out all forms of racism and hatred, we should denounce all those using racist rhetoric that seeks to divide us, welcome the stranger and advance honest dialogue.
The way forward is not an easy one, and barriers remain in access to quality facilities, lingering stereotypes, and funding disparities, but by working in partnerships together, we can build a society free from fear and deprivation, one that is fit for our returning heroes.
Signed on behalf of Barnet Multi Faith Forum (BMFF) Trustees and Executive
For further information contact
Esmond Rosen President BMFF 07977509643 esmondrosen@outlook.com
Please see the presentation below. It is 17 pages long and can be scrolled through using the arrows on the bottom left of the PDF window. This forms part of a book display in the library on campus.