“We are appalled at the attack at Heaton Park Synagogue in Manchester. The attack took place on Yom Kippur, the holiest day in the Jewish calendar, which makes it all the more horrific.
“Our thoughts and prayers are with the loved ones of all those affected and who have tragically lost their lives.
“We are working closely with our partners, including the borough’s Tension Monitoring Group, community faith leaders, our No Place for Hate Forum, to ensure the Jewish community in East London feel supported during this difficult time.
“Tower Hamlets is one of the most diverse places in the country, and one of the most cohesive. 90% of our residents from different backgrounds say they get on well with each other. For centuries, the East End has welcomed all communities and all faiths. We are proud of that history, and that we are an example of how people from different backgrounds and different religions live and work together in harmony.
“We urge solidarity, calm and unity. During difficult times such as this we stand together and support each other, something that is testament to the strong community bonds in the borough.
“This Saturday marks the 89th anniversary of the attempt by the blackshirts to march through Cable Street in an attack on the local Jewish community. It was not just one group but all diverse groups in the East End who stood up to them - as one community.
“We are proud of that history and our values of respect, understanding, and kindness. The East End remains united today and the forces of division will not prevail here.”
Rev James Olanipekun, Chair of Interfaith Forum and Lutfur Rahman, Executive Mayor of Tower Hamlets Council
Posted on Thursday 2nd October 2025