IRU - Challenging Islamophobia in Sport & Society: 2 to 4pm (Birmingham)

Join us for discussions and insight into Islamophobia in sport and our society - let's challenge stereotypes and discrimination

Challenging Islamophobia in Sport & Society — Birmingham (2pm to 4pm)

Hosted by the Islamophobia Response Unit (IRU)

Sunday 17th May 2026 | 2:00pm – 4:00pm (2hrs)

Join us in Birmingham for a powerful and thought-provoking afternoon hosted by the Islamophobia Response Unit (IRU) — the only Muslim charity run by lawyers in England and Wales dedicated exclusively to supporting victims of Islamophobia.

This event brings together community leaders, legal professionals, activists, allies and those local to Birmingham to tackle one of the most pressing issues facing Muslim communities today: Islamophobia in sport and wider society. From grassroots clubs to national governing bodies, from the workplace to the street, we will explore how discrimination manifests, how it can be challenged, and what systemic change looks like in practice.

What to expect:

IRU overview - A focused presentation on the IRU's work, including real-life examples of the Islamophobia we encounter daily, from attacks on mosques to Muslim children being institutionally discriminated against in schools. Find out how to report to us and how to access free legal advice and support, whether you are an individual, a parent, a mosque-goer or an organisation.

Panel discussion - A dynamic and honest conversation bringing together expert voices and lived experience. Confirmed panellists include:

• Naseem Akhtar, CEO of Sähëlï Hub — a Birmingham-based charity with over 25 years of experience empowering women and girls from ethnic minority communities through sport and physical activity
• Representatives from the National Association of Muslim Police (NAMP), bringing a unique perspective on policing, community relations, and discrimination in sport and public life.
• Further panellists to be announced.

Spotlight on policing and sport - Amongst the issues we will explore is the highly controversial Maccabi Tel Aviv affair — a case that raised profound questions about policing decisions, institutional accountability, and the treatment of Muslim communities, and how sporting events can become flashpoints for wider societal tensions. This will be an honest, balanced and evidence-based discussion.

Open conversation and networking - Space for questions, dialogue and connection. Share your details with us and with others for future collaboration, activism or allyship, and leave with new connections to those driving real change across Birmingham and beyond.

Why attend?

• Hear directly from those at the forefront of challenging Islamophobia in sport and society
• Learn how to report Islamophobia and access free legal support
• Connect with professionals, community organisations and allies driving real change
• Be part of a conversation that matters

Tickets: £5 · Refreshments provided · All are welcome