Upholding Our Shared Commitment: Solidarity Against Racism and Hate in Glasgow

Dear friends and neighbours,

We at the Glasgow Buddhist Centre are writing with deep sorrow in the wake of the escalating racist violence in our city.

We are horrified by the scenes of disorder, where masked individuals marched towards our places of worship, where people were attacked because of the colour of their skin, and where worshippers at the Central Mosque were forced to lock their doors and remain inside for their own safety. We stand in absolute solidarity with the Muslim, Sikh, and all minority communities who have been targeted, threatened, and terrified by this hatred.

We are horrified by the continued attacks on minority communities, most recently the targeted assault on five Muslim men near a mosque in Edinburgh this past Friday. This was not random disorder; it was a deliberate act against people simply for being Muslim, in the vicinity of their place of worship.

Last year, as part of Glasgow 850, I had the honour of signing the Glasgow 850 Interfaith Declaration alongside leaders from across our city’s faith and belief communities. That Declaration was a powerful reaffirmation of Glasgow’s enduring commitment to unity, compassion, and dialogue. It was a pledge to challenge prejudice in all its forms, to welcome refugees, and to work together for a just and inclusive city.

The events of this week are a direct assault on those shared values. The attempt to punish an entire community for the actions of one individual in Belfast is morally indefensible. We reject the scapegoating of migrants and minority groups. We reject the idea that anyone in Glasgow is less worthy of safety, dignity, and respect because of their faith, ethnicity, or origin.

Our signature on that Declaration was not just ink on paper; it was a promise. Today, we reaffirm that promise. We affirm that Glasgow is a city of diversity, mutual respect, and shared humanity. The presence of people of all backgrounds, faiths, and origins enriches our community. We will not allow hate to define our city. We will not allow fear to silence our voices of compassion.

We call on everyone in Glasgow to stand against intimidation. We encourage you to speak out where it is safe to do so, to support your neighbours, and to find ways to show our commitment to peace and unity. We stand with all those who have come out to show that love is stronger than hate.

In our daily meditations and rituals, we reflect on the practice of metta—loving-kindness. This is not a passive wish for happiness; it is an active commitment to the well-being of all beings, especially those who are suffering or under threat. We hold our Muslim, Sikh, and other minority neighbours within our hearts. We pray for their safety, their healing, and their peace.

We conclude with the words from the Karaniyametta Sutta, which guide our practice and our community life:

"Just as a mother would protect her only child with her life, even so, with a boundless heart, one should cherish all living beings.”

We are with you. We stand with you. We will not stop until hate is overcome by compassion and justice.

In peace, solidarity, and love,

Dharmacharini Parami Chair of the Trustees, Triratna Buddhist Centre (Glasgow)