A MUSLIM charity fun run that excluded women from participating was slammed as “horrific” and “appalling” by the Communities Secretary today.
The event on Sunday, organised by the London Muslim Centre and East London Mosque, was billed online as an “inclusive 5 km race” for “runners and supporters of all ages and abilities”.
LNPRunners take part in the Muslim Charity Run in Victoria Park, East London. But girls and women aged over 12 were not allowed to participate.[/caption]
But the website for the fun run clarified it was only open to “men, boys of all ages and girls under 12”.
The fun run, which took place in Victoria Park, is set to be investigated by Britain’s equality watchdog over the potential it breached discrimination laws.
Communities Secretary Steve Reed blasted the event, which was attended by hundreds, as “absolutely unacceptable”.
He told LBC: “I saw these reports… and I was as horrified as anybody else.
“It’s absolutely unacceptable that women should be blocked from going on a fun run in a public space when the men are allowed to go out there and do that.
“Now we have an equalities watchdog, I’m sure that they will be aware of this case.
“It’s getting a lot of publicity, and quite rightly so, and they will determine whether there has been any breach of the law or regulations and then I’m sure sanctions will follow as appropriate.
“But speaking for myself, I was appalled.”
Tory Chairman Kevin Hollinrake said: “It’s medieval and completely contrary to our laws, traditions and values.”
He called for those responsible for banning women to be “prosecuted”.
The annual event is described online as being a “highlight in the East London Muslim calendar, raising thousands of pounds for vital causes across the UK and abroad, from local youth projects, food banks and refugee support to international humanitarian relief”.
Last night the disgraced convicted fraudster and Tower Hamlets mayor, Lutfur Rahman, backed the ban on women.
He said: “Well done to each and every one of you, especially to the youngsters and the elders and the community at large for participating today.”
A spokesperson for the Equalities and Human Rights Commission said: “The EHRC receives complaints each week about allegations of unlawful activity contrary to the Equality Act 2010.
“We consider each complaint carefully and take action where appropriate.”
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