2016 sees the official opening of the Stories of Sacrifice exhibition, dedicated to the bravery and sacrifice of hundreds of thousands of Muslim soldiers who fought for Britain in World War One (WW1).
From recruitment to burial, the exhibition developed by the British Muslim Heritage Centre (BMHC) and part funded by the Community Covenant, gives an insight into the selfless sacrifice of Muslim soldiers, who valiantly fought for the freedoms and privileges that we take for granted in Great Britain today.
Greater Manchester Lord Lieutenant Warren Smith will officially launch the exhibition during the exclusive Annual Gala Dinner at the British Muslim Heritage Centre, in Whalley Range, Manchester, on 15th January 2016.
Master of Ceremonies is set to be BBC Radio leading light Talat Awan, who will be joined by a host of dignitaries, including the interim Mayor of Greater Manchester Tony Lloyd.
Complete with a virtual library, lesson plans and a toolkit for schools, this exhibition is the first long-term exhibition of its kind, devoted solely to exemplifying the Muslim community contribution and sacrifices during WW1.
Located in the heart of a diverse and developing Manchester, it will provide a stimulating platform from which to discuss and celebrate Muslim identity, belonging and contribution, not only to the region, but to the United Kingdom as a whole.
400,000 Muslim Soldiers from India fought for Britain in WW1, in addition to a further 280,000 Algerians, Moroccans and Tunisians who fought for the allies. At least 89,000 Muslims were recorded as having given their lives for this country.
It is a little known fact that 20% of British Empire recruits were actually Muslims. What an unbelievable commitment and sacrifice. We British owe a lot to these forgotten heroes.
BMHC Chairman, Nasar Mahmood has commended his staff on an excellent achievement, stating that This is not the complete or final exhibition, it is simply the start of a journey of education and enlightenment. Ultimately towards a more cohesive society, founded on mutual respect and collaboration.
At a time when the Muslim Community is continually in the media spotlight, with some in society calling into question their loyalty to British values and to the British way of life, this initiative will go a long way to finding some tough but common ground.
(Muslim soldiers praying at Woking Mosque November 1915)
Indian Army troops reading English Newspaper on the way to
