A Doncaster mosque is refusing to allow the latest far-right protests to stop them from building bridges with the wider community.

The Sultania had planned to host an open day earlier this month but was forced to cancel it after far-right protests were planned across the country following the deaths of three children in Southport.

The initiative, led by Imam Habeeb Minhas, aimed to foster understanding, dispel misconceptions, and strengthen relationships between the Muslim community and the local community. He explained those who were due to attend were disappointed by the fact it had to be cancelled.

“We sent over 300 emails to people across Doncaster, including MPs, councillors, and other organisations – all of whom shared their regret that the event was cancelled,” said Iman Minhas.

The recent riots have not dampened Imam Minhas’ spirits, and he and his team strive to continue their inter-faith community work and are planning to host the event next year.

Imam Minhas, who emphasised the importance of spreading awareness about Islam, said: “The main focus is to educate the masses and to build bridges between our community, the mosque, and the wider non-Muslim community.

“We wanted to create a space where dialogue could flourish, and people could ask questions regarding Islam.”

The aim for the open day is to offer visitors a unique opportunity to explore the venue, ask questions, and gain insight into Islamic practices and beliefs. Attendees will also be invited to listen to the Adhan [the Islamic call to prayer] and observe the daily prayers, providing a first-hand experience of the spiritual aspects of Islam.

Imam Minhas said: “I’ve always had the vision to reach out to the wider community of Doncaster because of the potential to connect with them.

“This is where I had the idea to host a ‘Discover Islam’ day.”

To replicate the original event, the rearranged open day will also feature a variety of interactive stalls, allowing visitors to engage with different aspects of Islamic culture. Participants will be able to have their names written in Arabic calligraphy, try on traditional Islamic clothing such as the hijab or thobe, and learn more about the history and practices of Islam.

Imam Minhas explained one of the key goals is to reach out not only to those who are already supportive of Islam but also to individuals who may hold negative views or have concerns.

He said: “We want to give those people a chance to voice their concerns and ask questions, whilst also allowing us to express our side.

“It gives people a chance to speak to an Imam and other Muslims directly, as opposed to learning about the religion through, sometimes negatively biased, news.”

Jack Roberts, 23. a Journalism student at the University of Sheffield, who lives in Doncaster, expressed his support for the event.

He said: “I definitely would have been open to attending this open day. At the end of the day, we all call Doncaster home, so why should we burn bridges with each other?”

The Sultania Mosque’s initiative reflects a broader effort to promote unity and understanding in an increasingly diverse Doncaster. By opening its doors and inviting dialogue, the mosque hopes to create a more harmonious community where all residents feel welcome and respected.