Outcry after reports a Muslim charity run in London barred women
A Muslim charity run held in Victoria Park, Tower Hamlets, drew immediate scrutiny after reports suggested women were blocked from taking part. Organised by East London Mosque in partnership with the London Muslim Centre, the event was promoted as an inclusive 5km race for runners and supporters of all ages and abilities, with men, boys of all ages and girls under 12 listed as eligible participants. The claim of inclusivity prompted swift response from UK authorities who said such exclusions are unacceptable in a public event.
The communities secretary, Steve Reed, told LBC radio that he was “appalled” by the reports and said the Equality and Human Rights Commission (EHRC) would determine if any laws or regulations were breached. “It’s absolutely unacceptable that women should be blocked from going on a fun run in a public space when the men are allowed to go out there,” he said. He also noted that the EHRC would examine the case for potential breaches of equalities law and take appropriate action if required.
Reed’s comments reflected a broader concern about gender equality in public life, with the government urging a careful examination of the incident. He added that he did not want a situation where men are permitted to participate in activities that women cannot access and stressed the importance of consistent enforcement of equality norms.
The London event, described by the organizers as a highlight of the East London Muslim calendar, brought hundreds of runners and supporters to the park for the 12th annual charity run. Organisers have stated that the event raises funds for both local and international causes, including youth projects, food banks, refugee support, and humanitarian relief. The involvement of local leaders, including the Tower Hamlets mayor, was acknowledged on the event’s platform, which sought to celebrate participation across generations while supporting charitable aims.
Following the reports, Tower Hamlets council indicated it had contacted the mosque to seek urgent clarification about the age and gender restrictions reported. A council spokesperson emphasised that the event itself was independent of the council and that the local authority is committed to ensuring inclusive leisure and sporting activities within the borough. The EHRC is reviewing the matter, with a spokesperson noting that the commission routinely assesses complaints about potential breaches of the Equality Act 2010 and takes action where appropriate.
Whether the event technically violates the Equality Act depends on several factors, including the specific provisions of any charity or religious exemption involved and the precise scope of the participation rules. The EHRC’s role is to assess complaints and determine if unlawful discrimination has occurred, potentially leading to sanctions. While some religious or charitable bodies may invoke exemptions in certain contexts, the public nature and setting of the Victoria Park event have prompted calls for a transparent clarification of the organisers’ policies.
East London Mosque and the London Muslim Centre have been contacted for comment, as authorities and the community await further details. In the meantime, the incident has reignited debates about how public spaces and community events should balance religious or cultural practices with universal equality obligations that apply to everyone in the public sphere.
As the EHRC conducts its review, local officials emphasise their commitment to inclusivity in leisure and sport. The outcome of this inquiry could set a benchmark for how similar events navigate the delicate intersection of religious practice, charitable aims, and equal access for all residents of London and beyond.
What comes next for inclusive events in London?
Analysts expect the EHRC’s findings to influence guidance for event organisers across the capital and potentially beyond. If the case highlights legitimate safety or age considerations, stakeholders may push for clearer participation policies that safeguard inclusivity without compromising security or local community norms. The incident underscores the need for transparent communication by event organisers and ongoing dialogue with local authorities to ensure that charitable activities remain accessible to everyone while respecting diverse beliefs and traditions.
Ultimately, the balance between inclusive public events and religious or cultural preferences remains a live issue in London. The next steps will likely involve formal clarifications from the organisers, possible policy adjustments, and an ongoing public conversation about equality, access, and community cohesion in a city renowned for its diversity.
