The Al-Andalusia Islamic University of Spain participated in the presentation ceremony of the Seville City Council's Anti-Rumor Strategyan initiative promoted together with "la Caixa" Foundation with the aim of combating misinformation, prejudice and hate speech that affect social coexistence.

During the meeting, the Rector of the University, Sh. Mohammad IdrissiHe stressed the importance of these types of strategies not remaining in a document, but having a real and tangible impact on Sevillian society.

"That initiatives like this are being promoted from key institutions for our city is good news, but the real challenge is that they translate into real change."

An experience built from daily work

In his speech, the Rector shared the experience of the Muslim community of the Macarena and of the entities linked to Al-Andalusia, which have been working with the Muslim community for the last three years. more than three decades of active work in the prevention of discrimination and the promotion of coexistence. A job that, far from being optional, is part of the community's daily life.

One of the most compelling facts on the table was the impact of discrimination on Muslim children and youth. As he explained, a large majority of minors linked to educational entities in the community have suffered some type of discrimination.Islamophobia is one of the least socially recognized forms, despite its constant presence.

Rumors, fear and collective responsibility

The intervention placed special emphasis on the role played by rumors in the generation of fear and rejection, and how these can lead to episodes of violence that fracture coexistence. In response to this, the need for the active involvement of administrations, social entities and citizens as a whole was stressed, recalling that the defense of fundamental rights must apply to all people, regardless of their origin or beliefs.

"Combating hate speech cannot be understood as a personal choice, but as a collective responsibility."

Education, dialogue and hope

Al-Andalusia's participation in this strategy reinforces its commitment to an education that goes beyond the classroom, understood as a tool to to form a critical, conscious and committed citizenship for social justice. In the face of polarization and misinformation, knowledge, dialogue and social involvement remain the pillars for building a more just and cohesive society.

To deepen this reflectionYou can watch the full speech of the Rector, Sh. Mohammad Idrissi, at the presentation of the Anti-Rumor Strategy at the following link: Seville City Hall Anti-rumor Strategy Sh. Mohammad Idrissi.