The narrative surrounding Palestine, deeply rooted in Islamic principles and the universal call for justice, has historically been a sensitive topic, especially within professional environments. Many Muslims, alongside their allies, often find themselves navigating a minefield of accusations, ranging from antisemitism to being unfairly labelled for merely voicing their solidarity.

As tensions rise around the world, a recent poll conducted by Muslamic Makers found that almost 76% of Muslim respondents did not feel safe expressing their views at work, with nearly half (49%) claiming fear of repercussions and nearly a third (34%) citing fear of losing their employment as reasons for their silence.

A recent analysis by CAGE International demonstrates a concerning escalation in both the quantity and variety of incidents in which expressions of solidarity and support for Palestine are targeted in the United Kingdom. The number of cases managed by CAGE International has increased by 455% since the previous surge in 2021. CAGE International managed 214 cases between October and December 2023, including 13 Mosque cases, 38 school and college cases, 35 workplace cases, 35 protest and related cases, and 13 university cases.

Below are some guidelines advocating for Palestine in professional settings

1. Know your rights: Dive deep into your workplace’s policies. Your right to voice solidarity with Palestine should be in harmony with these guidelines. Remember, any discrimination based on religion or race is a clear violation of the Equality Act 2010.

2. Express thoughtfully: While the freedom of expression remains a cornerstone, it’s essential to be discerning about the platforms and channels, especially if your organisation has stringent social media policies.

3. Decipher your company’s ethos: Engage in dialogues that advocate for your rights, especially if your organisation has publicly committed to diversity and inclusion. A genuinely inclusive organisation should not only recognize but also empathise with the challenges faced by Palestinians.

4. Articulate with precision: Employ internationally recognised terminologies and references, such as those endorsed by the United Nations, to elucidate the Palestinian issue.

5. Forge alliances: Cultivate relationships with colleagues who resonate with your sentiments. Collaborate to form a cohesive front, ensuring a more informed and strategic approach within the workplace.

6. Maintain comprehensive records: Document all interactions and discussions meticulously, ensuring you have a clear trail for reference and protection.

7. Exude calmness and professionalism: The Palestinian narrative, laden with emotions, can be overwhelming. However, it’s crucial to maintain a balance of passion and professionalism in all engagements.

In Islam, standing up against oppression is not only a moral imperative but a courageous act of faith. The Quran and the teachings of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) emphasise the importance of justice and the responsibility to challenge injustice and tyranny. Muslims are encouraged to speak out and act against oppression, even when faced with personal challenges or fear.

This principle is particularly poignant when considering that while we may face difficulties in speaking out, there are those who suffer far greater consequences under oppressive regimes, often risking their very lives.

Our struggles, though significant, are pale in comparison to the life-threatening realities faced by the Palestinians. Thus, in the spirit of Islamic teachings, it becomes a duty to raise our voices, not just for ourselves, but in solidarity with those who are silenced, marginalised, and whose very existence is threatened by oppression.

Raise your voice for justice and contribute to the narrative; join the MPACUK writing team