"Hire a Muslim!" said one of the stands.  It meant a local Muslim person from Kings Cross would sit down with you answering any questions regarding women, terrorism, other faiths and a number of other issues for ten minutes.  There were exhibition stalls explaining both the history of Islam, contributions to science and European thought and Islamic meanings.  Other stands were a rap for Islam group, a European Muslim Initiative (in other words Muslims being part of Europe)  and some attire and food stands.  There were also fun fares, and samples of prayers were audible.  Overall this mella was a true reflection of one section of Kings Cross, its very pious mainly Bengali community.  What was good at this event on the 17th of August, is that it showed different ways of being and living as a Muslim person at Kings Cross.  It was a gesture by the local mosque and community that they are part of Kings Cross and like to be understood beyond the dressings that may be a barrier for some who are not Muslims.

It is important that decisions in Kings Cross are made to measure a wholesome approach for all.  For example whilst there is a need for pubs and prayer rooms, what we need is more areas and businesses where all groups feel invited and  comfortable being together, for example in tea-houses, restaurants that offer Halal option and pub days on which no alcohol is sold.

Also we need more street festivals and garden fetes where we, Muslims and non Muslims of different faiths and none, can meet and grow together as neighbours and friends and overcome barriers that at times in the past were tragically strayed, or even to discuss points where we agree not to agree.

For the Muslim community at Kings Cross to open its doors so freely was a courageous and important step, it wasn’t the first time they have done a mella, but certainly this one was one of the most successful ones.   

Ed. comment: apologies for false street in earlier posting.  Quite rightly Cromer St, not Coram St.