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Islamic Relief invited to Golden Jubilee celebrations

Queen Elizabeth II and the Duke of Edinburgh

Islamic Relief takes part in the celebrations marking the 50th anniversary of the Reign of Queen Elizabeth II.

At a special event held at St. James's Palace on the 10th of June 2002, Islamic Relief representative, Khalid Almulad delivered a presentation at the Golden Jubilee Young People's Faith Forum. His speech began with the teachings of Islam, and how they encourage Muslims to help others, regardless of race, religion or colour. He explained how the giving of Zakah (a percentage of your wealth) and Sadaqah (voluntary charitable donations) were core concepts in Islam. These teachings underpin the humanitarian work carried out by Islamic Relief. He then went on to talk about how Islamic Relief developed from an emergency relief organisation to one providing sustainable development projects in countries across the world. He spoke about how sharing core humanitarian values with other world faiths enhanced Islamic Relief's ability to work closely with other aid agencies.

Mr Almulad went on to focus on the strengths of diversity in a multi-faith, multi-cultural Britain. He spoke of how cooperation between different faiths and communities in Britain can help us strive together towards the common goal of a better society.

The presentation was followed by a reception at Buckingham Palace, hosted by the Queen and the Duke of Edinburgh.

As a British Muslim aid organisation, the honour afforded to Islamic Relief cannot be under-estimated. Our inclusion in this distinctively British event is further evidence of the important part we have to play in British society. It is also further recognition of our global mission to alleviate the poverty and suffering of the world's poorest people, regardless of race, creed or colour.