​Building community links at the Mayor’s Interfaith Breakfast

Businesses, community groups, faith leaders, council members and GMP came together for the Mayor of Bury’s Interfaith Breakfast today (Tuesday 5 March).

The event, organised by Bury Council and sponsored by Near Neighbours, allowed everyone to meet a variety of people from different backgrounds and beliefs. The well-attended breakfast including those from the Jewish, Christian and Muslim faiths, along with community representatives and council staff.

Each of the main speakers covered a different theme, and highlighted the importance of unity and equality at an event which took place on Shrove Tuesday and during the week featuring International Women’s Day.

Councillor Jane Black, the Mayor of Bury, said: “An occasion like this is so important as it allows us to come together, celebrate the diversity that we have in our town and appreciate everyone for the contributions that we collectively make, whatever faith, beliefs and values we have. It is exactly this appreciation of difference and celebration of uniqueness that makes Bury a great place to live and work in.”

Samra Kanwal, a Near Neighbours co-ordinator, added: “One of Near Neighbours’ objectives is to bring people together who are religiously and ethnically diverse. In doing this it allows people to get to know each other better, build relationships of trust and collaborate on initiatives that improve the local community they live in.”

Cllr Tamoor Tariq, cabinet member for communities and safer neighbourhoods, said: “‘I want to congratulate the mayor and the council’s community safety team for organising an amazing inter-faith breakfast. This was a brilliant opportunity for everyone to come together and celebrate how all faiths have more in common and to show in Bury we are always leading from the front when it comes to community cohesion.”

The catering was provided by Syrian refugees who have recently set up a business called Falafels & More on Bury Market. You can read more about them here: https://www.burytimes.co.uk/news/17207273.first-syrian-arabic-food-stall-to-launch-at-bury-market/

Anyone who wishes to become involved in future interfaith initiatives should call Alan Slater on 0161 253 6544.

ENDS

Press release issued: 5 March 2019.