Video clips of the speeches at the Council of Ex-Muslim’s 8th Anniversary celebrations can be seen here. Pragna Patel and Kenan Malik who were unable to attend sent CEMB messages of support, which can be read below.

Message from Pragna Patel, Director of Southall Black Sisters

Dear Friends and Comrades,

I am sorry that I cannot be with you today but my heart and thoughts are with you on your 8th birthday.

SBS is proud to be an ally of CEMB whose courageous work and campaigns against religious fundamentalism and religious dogma continues to inspire and move us. Your very existence moves us to attain new heights in our struggle for freedom and equality and for that I am thankful. Personally, I have a lot to learn from the grit and bravery (and sometimes sheer audacity) shown by Maryam and all the CEMB members who never seem to waver or compromise in the search for truth and justice. We live in truly challenging and depressing times characterised by the resurgence of racism and murderous, reactionary right wing religious political movements with which many on the Left are complicit. The Left’s stance on religious fundamentalism is unfathomable but it continues to terrify me even more than the rise of religious fascism. SBS is only able to confront these chilling developments because of allies like CEMB. You have stood up when no one else will to the enemies of humanity. You have stood up for the rights of apostates and atheists and all dissenters who are punished and killed for their right to challenge, criticise and even leave religion. You are showing the rest of us what true courage means. We are so proud to walk side by side with you.

A Happy, Happy Birthday – you are so needed!

In sisterhood and solidarity

Message from author Kenan Malik

Dear friends,

I am sorry not to be with you today at your celebration. The CEMB is a vital organization whose work is of great importance.

We live in an age of much political and moral confusion. An age in which much of the left has lost its attachment to traditional progressive politics of liberty, equality and free speech. When the meaning of such ideas has often been turned on its head, when concepts of liberty and equality are often used to deny people those very rights.

The CEMB plays an immense role in defending the rights and liberties that need defending, in challenging bigotry from both sides, and in standing in solidarity with so many fighting for the most basic of rights. It has been an honour working with Maryam and the CEMB over many years and on many issues.

So, have a great day today. And I hope to see you all at the 9th anniversary celebrations.

In solidarity