Sefton Council’s Leader declared that “when we build bridges, not walls, we create a future that is brighter for everyone”.
Cllr Marion Atkinson spoke among faith and community leaders at the Open Day hosted by Southport Islamic Society Mosque and organised by The Light Foundation where the theme was ‘Celebrating One Community’.
She praised organisers and the packed audience for “being part of the journey towards a more united society” after a troubled week in the UK which saw two men murdered at a Synagogue in Manchester and an arson attack at a Mosque in Sussex.
Other speeches were given by Imam Ibrahim Hussein, Lord Lieutenant of Merseyside Mark Blundell, Southport MP Patrick Hurley, Merseyside Police and Crime Commissioner Emily Spurrell, Southport and District Reform Synagogue Chair Dr Selwyn Goldthorpe, Merseyside Police Head of Local Policing Natalie Perischine, Southport Hospital Chaplain Jan Fraser, and Holy Family Church Parish Priest Father Kevin McLoughlin.
Cllr Marion Atkinson said: “It is a true privilege to be at this Mosque for a true celebration not only of faith, but of friendship, understanding, and a shared purpose.
“Today we gather to learn not just about the rich traditions and values of Islam,. But to re-affirm something even deeper – our commitment to building a society where every person feels seen, respected, and valued.
“A society where diversity is not just tolerated, but embraced as a source of strength.
“In our borough we are proud of the diverse tapestry of cultures, languages and beliefs that make up our community.
“But cohesion does not happen by accident. It is built day by day, conversation by conversation, handshake by handshake.
“It is built when we open our doors as you have done today and invite others in with warmth and generosity.
“Community cohesion means recognising that while we may come from different backgrounds we share common hopes – safe streets, good schools, opportunity for our children and dignity for our elders.
“It means standing together in times of celebration and in times of challenge.
“It means rejecting division and choosing unity.
“The role of places of worship like this Mosque is vital in that journey.
“They are not just centres of faith but centres of service, compassion and leadership.
“Whether it’s supporting the vulnerable, feeding the hungry or offering a space for reflection and peace, your contribution to our borough is immeasurable.
“As a council we are committed to working hand in hand with all communities to ensure that every voice is heard and every resident feels that they belong.
“We know that when we build bridges, not walls, we create a future that is brighter for everyone.
“The awful and unimaginable anti-Semitic attack in Manchester this week brings home to us all how much work there is still to do to unite communities, to bring together people of all backgrounds and faiths.
“We must stand together in unwavering solidarity with our Jewish communities, our Muslim communities, our Christian communities, all parts of our community.
“This is a town and a borough of many faiths and we should be proud of our rich history of diversity and inclusivity.
“This should be the basis on which we work together now and in the future.
“Here is my call today for all of us. Let’s not let this be a one-off event. Let’s take what we’ve learned, the conversations we’ve had, and the connections that we’ve made and build on them.
“Attend a community event you’ve never been to before; invite someone from a different background for a coffee and a chat; volunteer your time; share your story; and listen to others.
“Unity is not just an ideal, it is a choice.
“And it is one we must make together, again, and again.
“Thank you for welcoming us so warmly today, and thank you for your commitment to peace, understanding and community and thank you for being part of the journey towards a more united society.”
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