It takes courage to stand up and defend others in the face of an angry mob. It is important to remember that we are more alike than different. Creating a bridge of understanding and acceptance of difference means we have to let go of the ‘old days’ and embrace the ‘new ways’. Change is scary for some and in many cases resort to violence and spreading fear. This brave young woman, Saffiyah Khan, took this opportunity to stand in between anger, racism, and simply smile in the face of a bully. A defining moment for both, who really has power. I am always impressed when people make that choice to take that risk and help others and in the process create a wonderful opportunity for change and empowerment.
Monday 10 April 2017
“Photo of Saffiyah Khan defying EDL protester in Birmingham goes viral.Birmingham who smiled in defiance at English Defence League protester becomes symbol of city standing up to far-right group.”
“The woman pictured has been identified as Saffiyah Khan, who is from Birmingham. Her family has links to Bosnia and Pakistan. She said the picture was taken when she stepped in to defend a woman wearing a hijab, who had been surrounded by a group of the protesters after she called them racists. “She was quite a small woman,” Khan said. “When I realised that nothing was being done [by police] and she was being surrounded 360, that’s when I came in as well.” She described the man who confronted her as “an angry man having a bit of a rant”. ”
In a world of social media and instant communication, this photo has given voice to those who would in many cases live in fear of intolerance and division. The power of change, the power of a smile is limitless. The power of a happy face.
https://www.theguardian.com/uk-news/2017/apr/09/birmingham-woman-standing-in-defiance-of-edl-protester-goes-viral?