For many young people, regardless of background, we live in confusing and difficult times. On a daily basis, they are confronted with issues of identity, diversity and citizenship whether through the media, their peers or in social situations.

This is particularly so for Muslim young people who due to political issues in the last ten years, have been faced with questions about their identity, their loyalty and their affiliations.

A recent report explained what citizenship meant to British Muslims “Respondents express a tremendously varied attitude and understanding of the concept of citizenship”

Not only is it difficult for young people to reach conclusions about these issues but also they find there is no neutral and safe arena for them to debate these highly political questions. The message young people receive is that these issues are too political, sensitive and controversial to be debated in schools and colleges.

We believe strongly that the debate must now be reclaimed and taken back to schools and colleges in an appropriate and safe forum. In addition we wish to encourage the development of a broad knowledge of the different ways of life which exist in order to tackle misinformation and stereotyping. Diversity must be viewed positively whether it is in the world, in Luton or even within a particular faith but at the same time prejudices and misconceptions must be challenged.