The latest book from Britain’s first Muslim Cabinet member, the Conservative Baroness Sayeeda Warsi, is a stark and sobering reminder of where we are as a nation. Muslims Don’t Matter presents a case that Warsi has seen for years, but is gaining evermore traction, with the rise of the Conservative Right and Reform UK. Detailing a variety of injustices, unbalanced experiences and lived realities that many Muslims have suffered for generations, Warsi puts forward a case that Muslims Don’t Matter, and considering the evidence she presents, it’s hard to argue with that assessment.
Whether discussing the case of Shamima Begum, employment inequality or Israel’s war on Gaza, Baroness Warsi is speaking her truth, and the truth of many in her community, that our country feels increasingly hostile, regardless of class or creed, depending only on religion, or perceived religion. Spurred by the racist riots of summer 2024, many points made have extreme recency, highlighting just how apparent this issue is, and the nature of the challenges being faced by millions of this country’s citizens.
Her words are also notable for the manner in which she articulates these incredibly powerful and difficult topics. The emotion and powerful sentiment in her words is clear to read, yet articulates all of her points with eloquence and, critically essential for many when trying to raise these topics, a wealth of evidence upon which to draw. Whilst those with closed ears and minds will likely still ignore this, for the rest of us, it is incomprehensible that the points raised by the Baroness are still regular occurrences Muslim communities have to contend with, making this book even more important now than can be imagined.
Make no mistake, this book is not a comfortable read. No one will finish this with a smile on their face or joy in their hearts. But this is integral to what this book stands for. In its relatively-short length, it brings the message home to roost that business cannot and must not continue as usual because entire communities are unjustly suffering. It is more important than ever, and having such a high-profile figure making this point will hopefully at least begin a conversation that is long overdue.
Muslims Don’t Matter is, sadly, an all too accurate title for Baroness Warsi’s latest book, because it rings startling true. In a country meant to be at its pinnacle of development, it is all too sobering to see it rolling backwards, in a long-term trend that appears to be accelerating, not reducing. This must be required reading. For policy makers, leaders and every person in this country. Because this issue is so deeply embedded in our culture, and needs to be ended, to ensure Muslims once again can feel as if they matter.
Rating: ★★★★☆
Muslims Don’t Matter (ISBN: 978-0-349-13647-9) was published in 2024
