Interfaith Walks on St George’s Day Aim to Unite Communities Against Hate

On April 23, 2026, interfaith walks took place across the United Kingdom, coinciding with St George’s Day celebrations, to promote unity amid a notable increase in antisemitic incidents and anti-Muslim hatred. Approximately 50 participants, including community and faith leaders, gathered in London, starting at St John’s Wood Church, proceeding to the Liberal Jewish Synagogue, and concluding at the London Central Mosque. This event was part of a broader initiative to reclaim the St George’s flag from its appropriation by far-right groups and to foster a sense of belonging among diverse communities.

The Guardian

Maurice Ostro, founder patron of the Faiths Forum for London, highlighted the changing public perception regarding interfaith work, noting that the increasing frequency of hate crimes has underscored its necessity. Ostro, whose family suffered during the Holocaust, emphasized the importance of solidarity in combating hatred. The interfaith events aimed to counteract the divisive narratives that have emerged in recent years, particularly in light of social media's role in amplifying extremist views.

Religious Leaders Launch Interfaith Walks to Counter Rising Hate

Several prominent figures participated in the interfaith events. Julie Siddiqi, co-chair of the British Muslim Network, urged minority communities to engage actively in national celebrations, asserting that St George’s Day should be a day of unity rather than division. Sunder Katwala, director of British Future, noted that these events help foster a multi-ethnic expression of English identity, reassuring participants of their place in society. Phil Rosenberg, director of the Board of Deputies of British Jews, expressed concern over the impact of social media and foreign interference in exacerbating societal tensions.

Religious Leaders Launch Interfaith Walks to Counter Rising Hate

Participants at the interfaith walk shared sentiments emphasizing the need for unity. Imam Sheikh Khalefa Ezzat stated, “Our duty is to bring peace and bring people together … not to divide them.” Ostro remarked on the importance of reclaiming the St George’s flag as a national symbol, asserting that it should not be associated with exclusion. Siddiqi echoed this sentiment, stating, “We should be celebrating and coming around the flag, and not shying away from that.”

The Guardian

Despite the positive intentions behind the interfaith events, some voices raised concerns about the broader societal context. Rosenberg warned that social media algorithms promote extreme rhetoric, which can distort public perception and exacerbate divisions. He noted that hostile foreign states exploit these divisions, turning neighbors into adversaries. Siddiqi acknowledged the vulnerability felt by some minority communities but encouraged active participation to counteract feelings of exclusion.

Religious Leaders Launch Interfaith Walks to Counter Rising Hate

The interfaith walks are part of a series of events aimed at fostering dialogue and understanding among diverse communities. As these gatherings continue, they serve as a platform for addressing the challenges posed by rising hate crimes and promoting a more inclusive narrative around national identity. The ongoing commitment to interfaith collaboration will be crucial in countering divisive trends and fostering a sense of belonging for all individuals in the UK.

The Guardian