Wigan council has responded after a councillor raised concerns about an ‘explore Islam’ exhibition scheduled for next month at Wigan library. The free one-day event on Saturday, August 15, features a ‘celebration of Islamic culture and traditions’ with ‘hands-on activities for all the family’.
Publicity material from the library service says the day is intended for ‘meaningful conversations’ and to ‘build bridges of understanding and unity’.
Councillor raises concerns
Coun Maureen O’Bern, an Independent borough councillor representing Ince, published an enquiry she made to the council following what she said were ‘numerous complaints’ about the event. She stated: “People have asked if there are going to be similar days for other religions. I personally do not think public libraries should be promoting any religions or political parties.” She added that she would make exceptions for Christmas, Easter and St George’s day displays ‘as we are a Christian country’.
In a later Facebook post, she wrote: “If we are educating people about Islam, it shouldn’t be just a sanitised version. I don’t want anyone persecuted for practising their religion but I do have concerns about the increasing influence of Islam in the UK.”
Council's response
Wigan council said libraries are ‘open spaces’ and ‘we are proud to host groups, events and sessions by lots of different community and faith groups’. It is understood no council funding has been put towards the event.
A Wigan council spokesperson said: “We are all aware of growing prejudice and division in our society, fuelled by misinformation and hatred. Wigan council is committed to tackling inequality, creating a safe, welcoming borough for all. Our libraries are open spaces and we are proud to host groups, events and sessions by lots of different community and faith groups, including the upcoming ‘Explore Islam’ exhibition being run by Meet Your Muslim Neighbour. Libraries are places to grow, learn and be part of a wider community, and these types of events can play a key role in bringing people together.”
Event details
Promoting the event on Instagram, Wigan library service posted: “Drop in to Wigan library on Saturday, August 15 between 10am to 2pm for an exciting exhibition filled with activities for all ages. From henna painting to interactive word hunts and ‘Try Your Hijab’ stations, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Delve into the richness of Islamic culture with informative stands exploring foundational beliefs, scientific contributions, and more. Engage in meaningful conversations and build bridges of understanding and unity. Don’t miss this enriching experience for the whole family.”
The event is organised by Meet Your Muslim Neighbours, established in 2004, which aims ‘to create opportunities for meaningful dialogue between Muslim and non-Muslim communities’. Its website states an intention to ‘foster understanding and connection across communities in the North West through exhibitions, school visits and outreach’. The group describes the exhibition as ‘immersive, museum-style Islamic exhibition’, allowing visitors to explore Islamic beliefs, history, culture, and everyday Muslim life through open conversation and interactive displays. It said the exhibitions are set up in community centres, libraries and other public venues ‘to bring the community directly to the public’.
