A question was raised within the MPACUK team as to how and why there are ZERO Muslims on the BBC board of governors. MPACUK decided to investigate. Initially, many reasons were discussed within the team. But we had to dig deeper to find out why ... and what can be done to ensure we Muslims have a voice and say in all matters of the society.

After a quick research and after speaking to the BBC, MPACUK were informed that the Queen (yes her majesty herself) appoints 12 governors with the advice of ministers. These people are appointed to ensure the BBC fulfills its obligations and serves the needs of the TV viewers. The governors have quite a responsibilty and much power as they hold the BBC managers to account for their performance against agreed strategies and objectives.

So who is exactly on this council where valuable and important decisions are made? Good question...have a look at this site. Now ask yourself why not a single Muslim is on this council representing the large 1.8 million Muslim population in the UK.

Is it a case of Islamaphobia and anti-Muslim actions on behalf of the appointment of these governors and this institution? Are they purposely abstaining from appointing Muslim governors? If so, then something must be done you moan!

OR are we Muslims just not good enough and lack the calibre and zest of being on the BBC board of governors to be in a position where we can influence and consult on what the UK population view on TV? For example, I for one am dreaming of the day when a fellow hijabi sister pops up on my TV screen in the middle of a drama (no I don't mean on Zee TV), yes, yes, and pigs might fly you say!

But all in all, this mini-investagtion illustrated some wider points that must not be ignored. As Muslims we need to be active and involved in all aspects of everyday society. We need more Muslims in the media to counter anti-Muslim stereotypes and attacks and portray Muslims as we truly are. We need more Muslims in parliment who push for beneficial motions for all human rights both nationally and globally. We need more Muslims in institutions, occupations, and the public sector such as the police force, schools, hospitals where we can make an active contribution not just on behalf of Muslims but the whole society.

So we at MPACUK are holding YOU to account. Anyone one of us who works hard enough could be appointed as a governor to the BBC, we are empowered Muslims who have rights and a say in the UK. We need to use these rights for beneficial and effective purposes for the sake of Islam and for the benefit of representing the Muslim view.

We cannot continue to be couch potatoes and moan and shout at the TV set everytime we don't like or like a programme or decision made which effects our lives. We must get involved, be active, and portray ourselves positively to the wider public.

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Are you interested in MPACUK? Want to see the faces behind the campaigns? Or support the work we do for the Ummah?

Recently we have been inundated with requests for information about MPACUK, the organisation, the people and the opportunities. In response, MPACUK will be hosting several Open Days for our supporters to meet the team, learn about future campaign plans and watch the Channel 4 documentary 'Operation Muslim Vote'.

Register your place now by contacting events@mpacuk.org for the following Open Days:

LONDON

10:00 - 13:00 on Sunday 12th June 2005

Platform 1.

2 Donegal Street. Islington. London N1 9QT.

MANCHESTER

12:30 - 17:00 on Saturday 25th June 2005

The Islamic Centre, Manchester.

Didsbury Masjid.

271 Burton Road. West Didsbury. Manchester M20 2WA.

Don't Miss It!

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