Communities Secretary Steve Reed has described as 'absolutely unacceptable' the exclusion of women from a Muslim charity run held in a London public park. The event, organised by East London Mosque and the London Muslim Centre, took place in Victoria Park, Tower Hamlets, on Sunday, and was advertised as open only to 'men, boys of all ages and girls under 12'.
Speaking on LBC radio, Mr Reed said he was 'appalled' and that the Equality and Human Rights Commission (EHRC) would investigate whether any laws had been breached. 'It’s absolutely unacceptable that women should be blocked from going on a fun run in a public space when the men are allowed to go out there and do that,' he added.
The event, described as a 'highlight in the east London Muslim calendar', raised funds for local youth projects, food banks and refugee support. Tower Hamlets Council said it had contacted the mosque to 'seek urgent clarification' following reports about age and gender restrictions. The council stressed it was 'firmly committed to ensuring leisure and sporting activities in Tower Hamlets are inclusive and accessible'.
The EHRC confirmed it was looking into the matter. A spokesperson said it receives complaints each week about alleged unlawful activity under the Equality Act 2010, adding that 'certain exceptions under equality law can apply to charities and religion or belief organisations'.
East London Mosque defended the event, stating in a statement: 'Our goal remains the same: to nurture faith, wellbeing, and social good for everyone in our community.' It noted that Muslim women from the community have taken part in other sporting events, including boat races, cycling and marathons.
