In Ed Husain’s chapter on Bradford in Among the Mosques, he paints a stark picture of a city deeply rooted in Pakistani Muslim culture, which he claims resists integration and undermines British values. According to Husain, Bradford’s Muslim residents live in isolation, wear exclusively “Muslim” attire, and raise women solely to fulfill domestic roles. Such assertions, while resonating with certain stereotypes, offer a limited and misleading portrayal of Bradford’s Muslim community. In reality, Bradford’s Muslim residents have enriched the city through their economic, cultural, and social contributions, creating a vibrant multicultural environment that strengthens British society.

A Brief History of Immigration in Bradford

Bradford’s multicultural identity has been shaped by successive waves of immigration over centuries. Each group of migrants has contributed to the city’s economic growth, cultural richness, and social cohesion.

• Cornish Migration: During the industrial revolution, many people from rural parts of the UK, including Cornwall, moved to urban areas for work.
• German Migration: German wool merchants arrived to support Bradford’s booming wool and textile industries with miners, skilled workers and craftsmen. Notably also creating Little Germany.
• Irish Migrationn: As a result of the Great Famine, many Irish moved to Yorkshire to work in factories and mills.
• Jewish Migration: In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Jewish immigrants fleeing persecution in Eastern Europe settled in Bradford.
• Polish Migrants: The Polish community in Bradford arrived primarily during and after World War II. Many were soldiers, displaced persons, and refugees who had fought alongside the Allies or fled Soviet occupation in Eastern Europe.
• Italian Migration: Italians migrated post-war. Many Italians were skilled workers or laborers who took up roles in the textile mills and manufacturing plants as well as bringing their culinary traditions.
• West Indies and South Asian Migration: The largest wave of migration came from Pakistan and Bangladesh in the post-war period to fill labor shortages in the textile industry as well as other industries.
• Ongoing Migration: More recently, migrants from Eastern Europe and the Middle East have settled in Bradford, contributing further to the city’s multicultural identity.

Generational History of South Asian Bradfordians (Generalised)

1. First Generation (1950s–70s):
   The first wave of South Asian migrants, primarily from Pakistan, India, and Bangladesh, arrived in Bradford in the post-war era to meet labor demands in the textile industry. Many were men who left their families behind, intending to earn money and return home. They worked long hours in mills and lived in modest, often overcrowded housing in areas like Manningham. Despite economic hardships, they established mosques and cultural associations, laying the foundation for their communities. This generation retained strong ties to their homelands and cultural traditions. This generation intended to return home once, they had rebuilt Britain.
2. Second Generation (1970s–90s):
   The children of the first generation grew up in a Britain experiencing significant social change. This generation often faced systemic racism and xenophobia, including the rise of far-right groups like the National Front. Many second-generation South Asians navigated an identity struggle, balancing their parents’ cultural values with growing up in a Western society. Some were involved in political activism, forming organisations to combat racism and bigotry and advocate for their communities. Education became a priority, and this generation began to enter professions beyond manual labor, such as teaching, healthcare, and business.
3. Third Generation (1990s–2010s):
   The third generation grew up in a more multicultural Britain, with broader acceptance of diversity. They are often more “British” in their outlook, with a strong sense of belonging to both their heritage and their local culture, though can often feel neglected by either side. Many are often found with one British born parent and one native South Asian parent due to the prevalence of arranged marriages. Technological advancements has also shaped their world. This generation saw increased representation in politics, arts, and media. However, challenges like Islamophobia, especially post-9/11, impacted their experiences. This is the generation also known to face an identitiy crisis, damned if they did, damned if they didn’t.
4. Fourth and Fifth Generations (2010s–present):
   The newer generations are growing up in a world defined by rapid technological changes, globalisation, and evolving cultural norms. They are digital natives, using technology to navigate and express complex identities. Many now pursue careers in STEM, creative industries, and entrepreneurship, benefiting from the sacrifices of earlier generations. Their experiences are shaped by Bradford’s multicultural legacy, which fosters pride in their heritage alongside active participation in British culture. However, on a national and global scale with the emergence of far right activism, they often do not know where they stand. They feel British, even if they are told they do not ‘look’ British.

Key Facts About the Muslim Population in Bradford

• Bradford is home to approximately 166,652 Muslims, making up 30.5% of the city’s total population as of the 2021 Census.
• The Muslim population in Bradford is predominantly young, reflecting the city’s overall median age of 36.7 years. A large proportion is under the age of 25.
• Bradford’s Muslim population predominantly identifies as Asian or Asian British (especially of Pakistani heritage).
• The Muslim community exhibits a near-equal gender distribution, with women and men actively engaged in education, work, and community life.
• Wards like Toller, Manningham, Great Horton, City and Barkerend are hubs of the Muslim population, with over 70% identifying as Asian or Asian British.
• Muslims in Bradford actively participate in local schools, colleges, and universities, fostering academic excellence and community development.
• Many Muslims in Bradford are part of the city’s thriving business scene, particularly in retail, food, manufacturing, and professional services, contributing significantly to the local economy.
• The city boasts numerous mosques, Islamic schools, and community centres, which play a pivotal role in fostering social cohesion and charitable work across all communities.
• Bradford’s Muslim population contributes to the city’s reputation as a hub for multicultural events, food, art, and music, showcasing the beauty of diversity.
• Muslims in Bradford are active in local governance, healthcare, and social services, helping to address challenges and improve the quality of life for all residents.
• While there is growing participation in IT and engineering, fields like scientific research, biotechnology, and advanced manufacturing often have fewer Muslims.
• Few Muslims occupy C-suite positions (e.g., CEOs, CFOs) or senior management roles in large corporations.

Bradford’s Commitment to Social Integration

Husain’s critique of integration fails to acknowledge the tangible efforts of Bradford’s Muslim community to engage with broader British society. Bradford’s Muslim population actively promotes interfaith dialogue and community cohesion. But here is a highlight of Muslim based charities, organisations, and Mosques in Bradford, who go the extra mile. A clear example of britishness we seem to use as a yard stick.

During the devatasting floods which hit the North in 2019, many Muslim volunteers stepped up to support their local and neigbouring communities: Muslim charity comes to aid of flood victims in deluged Doncaster village.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, Bradford mosques like Al-Madina Mosque and the Westgate Mosque served as vital community hubs for Covid testing. They also distributed food parcels and medical supplies to individuals from all backgrounds, demonstrating their commitment to public welfare. Similarly, the Khidmat Centre provided wide-ranging support, including health services, financial advice, and food bank provisions, showcasing a commitment to assisting those in need irrespective of their background.

The BFT provides faith leadership, youth programmes, family support services and financial assistance to refugees and vulnerable families in Bradford.

The Muslim Women’s Council in Bradford is dedicated to empowering Muslim women and fostering community cohesion through a variety of services and projects. Their initiatives address diverse needs, from social support to cultural enrichment. Key Services and Projects:

1. Curry Circle: Established in December 2013, this project aims to alleviate food poverty by providing sit-down meals, takeaways, and deliveries to vulnerable individuals facing financial hardships. Additionally, it offers financial advice, mental health support, and befriending services to build community connections. The People’s Projects
2. Our Deen is Green: This initiative focuses on environmental awareness within Muslim communities, promoting sustainable practices through activities like upcycling, horticulture, and community walks.
3. Think – Tank Pilot Programme: Aimed at integrating Muslim women’s experiences into policy and practice, this program ensures that their perspectives are considered in decision-making processes.
4. Women’s Building: MWC is developing a dedicated space to empower women and girls through various activities, fostering a supportive environment for personal and communal growth.
5. Daughters of Eve: This program focuses on raising awareness about child sexual exploitation, providing resources and support to protect and empower young women.
6. Fragile – Newly Launched Aunties Network: A recent addition, this network aims to support women through mentorship and community engagement, fostering intergenerational connections.
7. Step Up To Democracy Project: This initiative encourages civic engagement among Muslim women, promoting participation in democratic processes and enhancing political awareness.

Amal is an organisation focused on changing the negative narrative surrounding Muslims in the UK by fostering creative expression. It provides platforms for Muslim artists and communities to share their stories and connect across cultural divides. Key projects include community-based artistic initiatives such as Print & Matter in Birmingham, Salaam’O’Salaam in Bradford, and The Nasheed Choir. Amal aims to inspire hope and greater social cohesion through art, empowering Muslims to share their heritage and experiences.

Olive Grove Foundation a Bradford based chairty focus on helping the most vulnerable with regular hot meals. The Faith Cave is a grassroots initiative focuding on empowering young people. It provides various services, including youth clubs, scouts, forestry, community clean-ups, and homeless support.

Impact Hub Bradford is deeply involved in the local community through various initiatives such as the RESTART Programme which targets BAME organisations in the VCSE (Voluntary, Community & Social Enterprise) sector. It offers health checks, advice, support, capacity building, and workshops to empower these organizations. Impact Hub also offers Shariah-compliant social investment funds that focus on both financial return and social impact, ensuring that investments align with the core principles of the Islamic faith.

Faith in Communities offers services to work with people, local and national programmes, funders and consultancies, researchers and practitioners, and local authorities and government bodies with an aim to uplift ethnic and religious minorities

Considering the title of the book is Among the Mosques, perhaps Husain set out to find out what the Mosques in Bradford were doing to promote British Values, so here you go Ed…

Bradford is home to several mosques that provide essential community services. Organisations such as the Bradford Council for Mosques play a pivotal role in facilitating understanding between diverse religious and ethnic groups. They partner up with Born in Bradford to promote Health Promotion Through Faith Settings.

The Al-Mustafa Centre frequently host open days, welcoming non-Muslim visitors to explore Islamic teachings and build mutual understanding. The Markaz Ul Islami in in BD7 is known for its interfaith outreach programs and educational initiatives. Mustafa Mount in BD9 is another mosque known for its extensive community engagement, bearing emphasis o sports, wellbeing and entrepreneurship. Jamia Masjid Naqshbandia Aslamia in BD8 actively promote cohesion with the deaf muslim community.

Events like the Open Iftar during Ramadan, held in public spaces, invite people from all faiths to share a meal and learn about Islamic traditions. Such events bridge cultural divides and build stronger community bonds.

The Bradford Literature Festival, supported by Muslim organisers and participants, attracts global audiences by celebrating literature, art, and ideas. This festival exemplifies how Bradford’s multicultural ethos fosters creativity and inclusion.

Additionally, the city hosts Islamic art exhibitions and cultural programs that highlight the heritage of its Muslim residents. The Yorkshire Adabee Forum is a vibrant platform dedicated to preserving and promoting Urdu literature and culture among Urdu enthusiasts in the UK. The Artz-I studio is an Islamic Art Gallery who regularly hold workshops and events relating to Islamic Art, history and well-being.

In 2022, 24 brilliant nominees from Bradford were nominated for the British Muslim Awards 2022, which recognised the wide achievements of British people of Islamic faith, in fields including business, charity, law, and education.

And the list goes on and on…

Economic Contributions of Bradford’s Muslim Community

Bradford’s economy has flourished in part due to the entrepreneurial spirit of its Muslim residents. A Bradford Council report identifies over 4,000 businesses owned by South Asian families, many of whom are Muslims. These enterprises contribute significantly to the local economy, creating employment opportunities and fostering economic growth.

Dubbed the “Curry Capital of Britain” for six consecutive years, Bradford owes much of this success to its Muslim community. This achievement highlights the role of Muslim-owned businesses in attracting tourism, enhancing Bradford’s reputation, and integrating cultural traditions into the British mainstream.

Addressing Blatant and Vile Misrepresentations

Husain’s narrative seems shaped by a narrow view of Bradford, often focusing on stereotypes and only exacerbating them with confirmation bias. His emphasis on historical events like the book burnings of the 1980s and the riots overlooks decades of positive contributions from Bradford’s Muslim community. Furthermore, his choice to visit the Westgate Mosque, known locally as a vanity project, reflects a missed opportunity to explore institutions that prioritise community service, such as the ones mentioned above. He also refuses to acknowledge religion and identity at a global level affects Muslims at local levels, brandishing an Imam’s point of view as defensive.

While Bradford faces challenges, including socioeconomic disparities and occasional cultural tensions, these are not unique to the city or its Muslim population. Instead of framing Pakistani Muslims as a threat, it is more constructive to view Bradford as a model of resilience and collaboration. Similar challenges exist across UK cities with underfunded inner-city areas, emphasising the need for investment and community-driven solutions rather than divisive narratives.

Each generation of South Asians in Bradford has contributed to the city’s development, overcoming barriers to build stronger, more diverse communities. Their journey reflects resilience and progress, highlighting the positive impact of migration on Bradford’s social and economic fabric.

By presenting a fuller picture of Bradford, we celebrate the city’s diverse and thriving communities and reject oversimplified portrayals that fail to capture its true spirit.

Sources and Reading Material

• Bradford Council OUR PLAN FOR BRADFORD DISTRICT 2021-2025
• Migration Yorkshire, Muslims and community cohesion in Bradford
• Northern Exposure
• What works in building a better Bradford
• ONS Census 2021, accessed 2024.
• Bradford Census 2021
• 50% of all start-ups in Bradford set up by South Asian people
• Bradford District Prospectus
• Virtual Harmonies
• Bradford Pride not Predjudice
• Reports from the Bradford Council for Mosques on community initiatives
• Coverage of the Bradford Literature Festival in The Independent
• Local news articles from Telegraph and Argus on food bank initiatives and mosque outreach programs
• Various articles from The Telegraph and Argus on Bradford’s Curry Capital status
• Others directly linked in the article