Association of British Muslims

Daoud Rosser-Owen (Amir until 2019),

Paul Salahuddin Armstrong (Managing Director),

Mohammed Abbasi (Chief of Operations).Websiteaobm.org

The Association of British Muslims (AoBM) is an organization of British Muslims,^[1] initially founded in 1889 by Shaykh Abdullah Quilliam.^[1]

The Association of British Muslims began in Liverpool, England as the English Islamic Association, founded by Abdullah Quilliam,^[1] a 19th-century convert to Islam who opened one of England's first mosques during the same year,^[2] at about the same time that the Shah Jahan Mosque was built. AoBM changed their name to the British Muslim Society in 1914 and to the Western Islamic Association in 1924. It declined in the late 1940s, was opposed by nationality-based organizations of British Muslims in 1969, and became the Association of British Muslims in 1975. The name Association for British Muslims was also used for sometime after 1978.^[1]

Shaykh Daoud Rosser-Owen (1943-2021) was for many years the Amir of AoBM, after spearheading the revival of the organization in 1976.^[1][3] He was the Amir in 2010, when he appointed Paul Salahuddin Armstrong and Mohammed Abbasi as Co-Directors of AoBM. In 2019, Shaykh Daoud Rosser-Owen passed on the responsibility of Amir to Paul Salahuddin Armstrong, though he uses the job title of Managing Director^[4] and appointed Mohammed Abbasi as the Chief of Operations.^[5] In July 2023, Harry Saul Markham, the President of UCL Friends of Israel Society and Junior Research Fellow at The Institute for the Study of Global Antisemitism and Policy and National Director of World Magshimey Herut, was appointed to the role of Head of Research and Policy of AoBM.^[6][7]

The Association of British Muslims (AoBM) has long been committed to addressing social and ethical issues that affect Muslim communities in the UK and beyond. One of the most significant contributions has been the issuing of a fatwa against Female Genital Mutilation (FGM).^[8] This ruling unequivocally declares FGM to be incompatible with Islamic teachings and highlights the practice as a violation of fundamental human rights. By taking this firm stance, AoBM has positioned itself at the forefront of efforts to protect the rights of women and children, promoting an understanding of Islam that aligns with the values of human dignity and integrity. The fatwa has been widely recognized as a crucial step in combating harmful practices often mistakenly associated with religion.

In response to the growing threat of terrorism and violent extremism, the AoBM has consistently spoken out against the misuse of Islamic teachings to justify such acts. Following several high-profile incidents, the organization has joined a broad coalition of Muslim leaders across the UK to denounce acts of terror. For instance, after the tragic Woolwich attack in 2013, AoBM was one of the leading voices in a united declaration from British Muslim communities, condemning the violence and asserting that such acts are fundamentally at odds with the principles of Islam.^[9]

AoBM also played a pivotal role in the issuance of a fatwa against the so-called "Islamic State" (ISIS) in 2014,^[10] labeling its ideology as a toxic distortion of the faith. This declaration, which was part of a larger effort to counter extremist narratives, helped to clarify the position of mainstream Islam against radicalism. The fatwa not only garnered national attention but also contributed to the broader international discourse on the dangers posed by extremist ideologies.^[11]

Promoting social cohesion and fostering multifaith dialogue have been central to the mission of AoBM. The organization has been involved in numerous initiatives aimed at building bridges between different religious and cultural communities. One such initiative was the public condemnation of rising anti-Semitism in the UK, where AoBM joined other Muslim organizations in placing full-page ads in national newspapers to denounce this form of bigotry.^[12] This effort was widely lauded as a powerful statement of solidarity and a commitment to combating all forms of hatred, regardless of its target.^[13]

AoBM’s engagement in multifaith dialogue extends beyond statements. The organization has been actively involved in partnerships and campaigns that promote inclusivity and mutual respect. In collaboration with the Naz and Matt Foundation,^[14] AoBM has supported initiatives aimed at addressing homophobia within religious communities, advocating for the acceptance and protection of LGBTQ+ individuals. These efforts underscore AoBM’s broader commitment to ensuring that Islam is practiced with compassion and justice, reflecting its core teachings

In late 2010, the United Nations General Assembly Resolution on Extrajudicial, Summary or Arbitrary Executions, which had previously included protections against executions based on various forms of discrimination, including sexual orientation. The amendment removed the specific reference to sexual orientation. The AoBM expressed concern about this change, stating, "Removing this clause at this time could send an unintended message to regimes that engage in these practices, suggesting that the United Nations may be less focused on the treatment of individuals based on their sexual orientation." The Gay and Lesbian Humanist Association supported the AoBM's statement.^[15]

In February 2011, AoBM criticised homophobic stickers that appeared in East London. Then Co-director, Paul Salahuddin Armstrong stated, "There is nothing in the Qur'an against LGBT people. Allah has honoured every son/daughter of Adam, so such a hateful message is not only morally and ethically wrong but actually unislamic."^[6][16]

In response to the Church of England’s decision to bless same-sex marriages, AoBM issued a statement highlighting the potential impact on interfaith relations and the broader societal implications. The association emphasized the need for respectful dialogue on sensitive issues that affect both religious and secular communities.^[17]

Recognizing the importance of global Muslim solidarity, AoBM has worked to strengthen ties with Muslim communities around the world, particularly in Indonesia. The organization has actively participated in events that celebrate the rich cultural and religious heritage shared between British and Indonesian Muslims. A notable example is AoBM's involvement in the centenary celebrations of Nahdlatul Ulama (NU) in Surabaya^[18] and London,^[19] which underscored the deep connections between the two communities.

Furthermore, AoBM has also been involved in disseminating the fatwas and recommendations of the Congress of Indonesia Women Ulama (KUPI), emphasizing the importance of gender equity and moderate interpretations of Islamic teachings.

AoBM has also engaged in educational exchanges,^[20] where insights from the British Muslim experience are shared with Indonesian audiences, and vice versa.^[21] These exchanges have included public lectures and discussions on how Islam can be practiced within secular societies while maintaining its core values.^[22] Additionally, AoBM’s leaders have acknowledged their spiritual connections to Indonesian scholars,^[23] which has further strengthened the relationship between the two communities. This engagement is a testament to AoBM’s dedication to fostering a global understanding of Islam that is inclusive, moderate, and respectful of diverse traditions.

The Association of British Muslims has played a significant role in shaping national and international conversations about Islam and the place of Muslims in contemporary society. The organization has been an active participant in debates around issues such as the representation of ethnic diversity in British public life, including campaigns advocating for greater diversity on British banknotes.^[24] Such initiatives reflect AoBM’s commitment to ensuring that the contributions of British Muslims are recognized and celebrated as an integral part of the nation’s fabric.

Internationally, AoBM has been involved in efforts to promote peace and understanding across different cultural and religious contexts. The organization has issued statements and participated in campaigns condemning violence against minority communities, such as the recent attacks on Hindus in Bangladesh.^[25] By taking a clear stand on these issues, AoBM has reinforced its position as an advocate for peace and justice, consistent with the teachings of Islam.

AoBM’s influence extends to digital platforms as well, where it has utilized social media and other online channels to reach a broader audience.^[26] Through video lectures, public statements, and online campaigns, the organization continues to educate both Muslims and people of other beliefs on the values of Islam and the importance of living harmoniously in a diverse society. This digital outreach is a key component of AoBM’s strategy to counter misinformation and promote a balanced understanding of Islam in the modern world.

• http://www.aobm.org/
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