Scotland’s political leaders have pledged support for affected communities after a series of suspected anti Muslim attacks in Edinburgh on Friday evening left many people shaken and prompted renewed calls for unity across the country.
First Minister John Swinney was briefed by Assistant Chief Constable Catriona Paton following the incidents and received an update alongside Justice Secretary Neil Gray and Equalities Minister Simita Kumar on support being provided to those directly affected and the wider implications for communities across Scotland.
Particular attention has been focused on the impact the attacks have had on Scotland’s Muslim community, with the Scottish Government and Police Scotland continuing to engage with Muslim leaders and wider faith groups to provide reassurance and ensure appropriate safety measures are in place.
The First Minister is due to meet members of the Muslim community today to offer further support and reinforce the Scottish Government’s commitment to tackling violence, division and prejudice.
Mr Swinney said:
“There is no place for race-based or faith-based violence in Scotland.
“My thoughts are with all who have been impacted, the victims but also the communities who are understandably anxious by what happened.
“We must all stand united in utter condemnation of the heinous attack that took place in Edinburgh.
“Anti-Muslim hatred is abhorrent, and we must not allow recent attempts to stoke fear to divide us.
“Everyone who lives in Scotland, those that were born here and those that have decided to make Scotland their home epitomise Scotland’s values of hope, tolerance and solidarity.
“These are values that must be cherished, nurtured and protected.
“We must all come together to ensure that.
“I am grateful to Police Scotland for the continued work they are undertaking to ensure communities feel safe and supported.
“I want to reassure communities that my government will lead from the front in tackling all forms of violence, division and prejudice.”
The attacks have also prompted a strong response in Leith, one of Edinburgh’s most diverse communities, where local leaders and residents gathered to show solidarity and support for those affected.
Edinburgh North Eastern and Leith MSP Ben Macpherson said the events had been deeply upsetting but insisted they would not define the city or its communities.
Mr Macpherson said:
“The horrific attacks that took place on Friday were utterly appalling.
“My thoughts are with the people who’ve been hurt and everyone affected.
“I’m also grateful to the police for their response to the situation, and their ongoing engagement locally.
“Leith is one of the most diverse, vibrant places in our country.
“For decades it has been a place where people from different backgrounds, faiths and cultures live side by side, positively and peacefully, with respect, care, and kindness.
“We will not allow violence or extremism to divide us or stoke fear, we’re too strong in our diversity for that.
“The people of Leith are responding by showing solidarity with all of our diverse communities and I have been in touch with our local Muslim leaders and am actively working to support them.
“We can all help to stand up for our diverse society by calling out any far right rhetoric and being pro-actively anti-racist.
“Hatred has no place in Leith, Edinburgh or anywhere else in Scotland.”
Police Scotland’s investigation into the incidents remains ongoing as community leaders, politicians and faith groups continue efforts to reassure residents and maintain unity in the wake of the attacks.
The response from across Scotland has carried a consistent message that violence and hatred will not be allowed to undermine the values of tolerance, respect and solidarity that many believe define modern Scotland.
