Description
The 7/7 attacks were a defining moment in modern British history — shaping public policy, media narratives, and how communities experience the state. Two decades on, the effects are still unfolding.
In this event, we will discuss how counterterrorism laws and surveillance reshaped civil liberties, the impact on British Muslim identity, trust, and belonging, and how the framing of 7/7 continues to shape the way Islam is spoken about in public life.
As Islamophobia intensified and far-right politics gained traction, what role did the media and state play? This event asks what we’ve learned — and what kind of society we want to be now.
About the Speakers
Zahed Amanullah
Zahed Amanullah is an experienced British-American writer, presenter, and researcher on countering targeted hate and extremism worldwide, with 30 years of experience in interfaith and counterextremism activism with Muslim communities. He is a Senior Fellow at the Institute for Strategic Dialogue, where he has pioneered research on counter narratives to stem recruitment and propaganda by extremist groups in North America, Europe, Africa, and the Middle East. He has testified to the UK and EU parliaments and has been featured in leading broadcast, print, and audio media. He is formerly Director of the Concordia Forum (2011-2022), a global Muslim leadership network.
Dr. Dilwar Hussain
Dr Dilwar Hussain MBE is a British-Bangladeshi academic, independent consultant, and lecturer renowned for his work on social policy, Muslim identity, and Islamic reform in modern Britain Expert on modern Islam, identity, integration & policy. Dr Hussain is the Chair of New Horizons in British Islam, a published scholar and seasoned policy advisor and a trustee of key interfaith and social cohesion bodies.
About the Chair
Sabbiyah Pervez
Sabbiyah Pervez is an Investigations Reporter for BBC Yorkshire and Lincolnshire with over 10 years experience in broadcasting. During this time she’s uncovered and exposed several exclusive stories including medical negligence at Bradford Royal Infirmary, the malpractice of witch doctors and more recently a deep dive into domestic homicide reviews. Sabbiyah also has a track record of working with under represented communities across Yorkshire, gaining their trust to amplify their voices. During her time at the BBC, Sabbiyah has also worked for BBC Panorama and is a passionate advocate of responsible and ethical journalism.
Join Our Mailing List
By submitting this form you agree to our Privacy Policy and to receive marketing emails, including e-newsletters and event updates from Bradford Literature Festival.