Like many, I have watched the events of the last week in a state of helpless horror at the unfolding hatred which one human can visit upon another, through a web of mis-information and mis-directed anger. I have been more disturbed still, that the violence has been both deeply racist and often perpetrated against people who are already in incredibly vulnerable positions, such as those seeking asylum. But it is no use for me to be an outraged bystander, or to cross over the road to my nice comfortable abode while my neighbour lies bloodied and beaten in the street, and the organisations and fellow religious communities which work so hard to ensure their safety then find themselves to be targeted too.

My faith demands more.

Faith requires us to put aside partisan politics; to let go of working-assumptions; to educate ourselves; to meet people face to face; to challenge casually racist, xenophobic, and discriminatory language; to stand in solidarity with people of all faiths who seek peace; and to make a real contribution to ease the devastating loss of safety and security which those, who are the target of such violence, experience.

To love our neighbour in these times, we will be called upon to respond in myriad ways: some will march in solidarity, some will offer support to affected families, some will befriend individuals in need, some will contribute to the work of charities, some will advocate for those unheard, and some will commit to working on themselves and the unhealthy institutional cultures they encounter. The question is not ‘should I help’ but ‘how should I help’.

When your neighbour needs you, how will you respond? www.asylum-welcome.org