A Muslim Community Says It No Longer Feels Safe After a Series of Disturbing Incidents Left Many Families Worried in Kirklees

The Muslim community in Kirklees has spoken out about what they say is a worrying rise in anti-Muslim hatred and racial abuse, with local faith leaders urging politicians and authorities to take stronger action before the situation becomes even worse.

The concerns grew after a prayer sign at a Muslim burial ground in Almondbury was covered in graffiti. Many local residents described the act as disgusting and deeply offensive. The sign was meant to offer words of peace, remembrance and compassion for families visiting the graves of their loved ones, making the damage even more upsetting for the community.

Imam Mohammed Abubakar, Secretary of the Huddersfield Council of Mosques, said the incident was not an isolated case. He explained that there have been several troubling incidents over the past few months, leaving many Muslims feeling worried about the growing level of hostility they face. According to him, negative public comments about Muslims appear to be increasing, creating fear and uncertainty among local families.

He said the graffiti attack was especially painful because it targeted a place where people come to remember those they have lost. He added that everyone should be able to visit cemeteries and places of worship without feeling threatened or intimidated.

Local resident Abdul Ahmed also shared his concerns. He claimed that some Muslim families have become reluctant to use parts of the cemetery because there have been repeated complaints about people allowing their dogs to foul the area near Muslim graves. He said incidents like these, together with acts of vandalism and reports of racist behaviour, have made many people feel that hatred has become more open than before.

Mr Ahmed said racism is showing itself in different ways, including damage to property, hateful behaviour and threats aimed at people and religious buildings. Because of these concerns, he said mosques have been forced to improve their security to help protect worshippers.

Imam Abubakar explained that mosques have traditionally been welcoming places where people could come and go freely. However, because of safety concerns, some mosques have now installed one-way locking systems during busy periods. He said this is especially important because there can be around 200 children inside the building at certain times, making their safety the highest priority.

The Huddersfield Council of Mosques has called for all political parties in Kirklees, along with local MPs, to work together to tackle Islamophobia and make it a much higher priority. The organisation believes stronger action is needed to ensure everyone in the community feels safe and respected regardless of their religion.

The concerns were also raised after historic social media posts linked to an X account believed to belong to Dewsbury East councillor Eric Butterworth came to light. Some of the posts included controversial messages, including one image carrying the words, “From the English Channel to the North Sea, Make England ISLAM-FREE.”

In a statement released on July 20, the Huddersfield Council of Mosques said comments like these from elected representatives create fear and anxiety among Muslims. The organisation said political discussions should never make any community feel unwanted or unsafe. It added that Muslims have lived in Kirklees for generations and should be able to practise their faith, attend mosques and visit family graves without fear of hatred or intimidation.

The council of mosques also stressed that Islamophobia, like every other form of racism and hatred, has no place in society and called on leaders to stand together against discrimination.

Following the criticism, Councillor Eric Butterworth apologised for any offence caused by the posts. He said the messages had been taken out of context, were intended as satire and did not represent his personal views. He acknowledged that people had been offended and said he was sorry for the upset they caused.

Despite the recent incidents, Imam Abubakar said he still hopes meaningful action will be taken to improve the situation. He said he wants Kirklees to remain a place where everyone, regardless of their background or religion, feels safe, respected and valued.

Responding to the concerns, Reform UK leader of Kirklees Council, Sarah Wood, said her commitment is to the safety and wellbeing of every resident in the borough.

West Yorkshire Police also confirmed that neighbourhood officers have increased patrols around the Almondbury burial ground following the vandalism. Officers said they have been speaking with local residents and community leaders while continuing efforts to identify those responsible for the graffiti. Kirklees Council was also asked to comment on the concerns.