A new London base for the Somali Bravanese Welfare Association was officially opened last night in the presence of local Jews who have supported the community since the arson attack on its former centre six years ago.
Rabbis from across the religious spectrum were among the first to offer support to their neighbours in the wake of the 2013 assault, with Finchley Reform Synagogue hosting Ramadan prayers and annual iftar celebrations following an idea from Citizens UK.
Community members also provided free legal support and were at the forefront of a campaign for the new centre.
Last night, new faith minister Lord Younger cut the ribbon to formally open the facility in East Finchley, telling guests: “What sends the greatest message that hate won’t win are events like today.”
The minister – standing in for Communities Secretary Robert Jenrick who was unable to attend due to Brexit business in the House – said the entire country still finds the attack “profoundly shocking” and insisted that no stone go unturned to find the perpetrators who are yet to be brought to justice.
But he said the “selfless” support of local faith communities and others in the efforts to rebuild were a shining example to the country. Saying he had been “moved” by a video produced by Jewish News telling the story of the last six years, he added: “This government will find shoulder to shoulder in facing down hatred and in interfaith cooperation.”
Rabbi Miriam Berger of Finchley Reform praised the community’s “resilience” time and again, recalling how the Bravanese had also previously faced persecution in Somalia.
“Mazeltov means well done and good luck and what better word to say to you tonight,” she told the 150-strong gathering that including a number of local councillors who had supported the community. “It was one idiot that creates this situation but a whole community who said we can create a new chapter from here.”
Former Barnet police commander Adrian Asher recalled how the attack in the days after the murder of Lee Rigby could have been the “spark” for widespread troubles in the capital. The fact it wasn’t had nothing to do with the police, he said, but rather was down to the fact local communities refused to be torn apart. “It was an extraordinary few days,” he added.
Guests were entertained by children of the Somali Bravanese community and FRS singing ‘saalam, shalom’ together. Board of Deputies President Marie van der Zyl said: “Despite so many similarities between our faiths so often there is a divide between our communities. It’s so important to bridge that divide.
“What a fantastic example of cohesion this centre offers. Talking is not enough. Acts of solidarity are what we need if we’re going to create a more cohesive society.”
