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London is the greatest city in the world because of the incredible people who live here. On the anniversary of The Daily Dazzling Dawn, I would like to take this opportunity to pay tribute to London’s Bangladeshi diaspora.
Whether it’s the restaurants of Brick Lane that have shaped the way Londoners eat, the doctors and nurses who uphold and strengthen our NHS, or the artists, musicians and entrepreneurs who continue to enrich our cultural life, you have made immense contributions to the capital over many generations.
I will never forget the extraordinary efforts made by the community during the Covid pandemic. I was particularly humbled by the volunteers who delivered food parcels to vulnerable people of all backgrounds, the community leaders who stepped up to help tackle misinformation, and of course the mosques that opened their doors to become vaccination centres. These actions helped save many lives, and I will be forever grateful on behalf of all Londoners.
Sadly, in recent times we have seen a shocking rise in anti-Muslim hostility alongside increased efforts to spread fear, division and hatred on our streets and online. That’s why it is more important than ever to ensure that our communities feel safe and celebrated. I want all of our diverse communities to know they are valued. That is one of the reasons why I am so proud that we have dual English and Bengali signage at Whitechapel Tube station, and why I’m proud to host free, family-friendly celebrations for festivals such as Eid in Trafalgar Square.
It’s also why I launched my Loved and Wanted campaign. This sends a clear message that London is, and always will be, a place for everyone. Earlier this year I was delighted to announce the creation of a network of 30 community spaces across the capital to increase support and opportunities for Londoners. Two of these are located in Tower Hamlets, the London borough with the largest Bangladeshi community in the UK.
Read our 3rd Anniversary Edition E-Paper
Research from my Workforce Integration Network team has found that Bangladeshi women are among the most underrepresented groups in the labour market, with nearly half out of work entirely. We are taking bold action to help those who wish to enter the workforce.
Through my Inclusive Talent Brokerage, we are supporting community-based organisations to connect underrepresented Londoners, including Bangladeshi women, with good jobs. At the same time, we are working with employers across the capital to address the barriers that hold women back. This includes expanding flexible working, recognising qualifications gained overseas, and creating clear pathways for career progression.
Our capital’s Bangladeshi communities have enriched our society, economy and culture in so many ways and I would like to say a huge thank you for helping to show the world that London is a beacon of inclusivity and diversity.
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By Sadiq Khan, Mayor of London
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