Ros Wynne-Jones pens the Real Britain column weekly for the Daily Mirror, advocating against government cutbacks and championing everyday citizens.
This summer, Heaton Park in Manchester gained notoriety as the venue for Oasis’ reunion concert. However, the park is now linked with tragedy.
Early yesterday, Heaton Park Synagogue was the site of a vicious terrorist assault as families gathered to observe Yom Kippur, the most sacred day in the Jewish calendar. Many attendees, following tradition, had their phones turned off, unaware of the attack until later.
Extremists despise successful multicultural communities, which Manchester exemplifies with its diverse population speaking over 200 languages. The city boasts a well-established Jewish community, the third-largest Chinatown in Europe, four international universities, and a renowned Curry Mile.
Located just 700 meters from the nearest mosque, Heaton Park Synagogue highlights the coexistence of various faiths in Manchester. The city has endured historical conflicts, including wars and terrorist incidents like Peterloo and the Manchester Arena bombing by the Abedi brothers.
Following the arena attack, poet Tony Walsh delivered his poem ‘This is the Place’ to a large crowd in St Peter’s Square, emphasizing the city’s unity and resilience.
In recent times, various extremists have attempted to sow division in society, leading to increased anti-Jewish sentiment and baseless accusations against asylum seekers from Muslim nations.
It is a crucial moment to show solidarity with the Jewish community and reject the few who spread hate. This is the time to embrace the inclusive vision of ‘real Britain’ promoted by the Prime Minister, where people live harmoniously, share cultural experiences, and unite against terrorism and extremism.