"there has been a lot of negativity and hateful commentary online"
Khadija Patel has spoken out after receiving online racism and hateful abuse following her recognition at the Palace of Westminster for her work empowering young women through sport.
The founder of KRIMMZ Girls Youth Club was honoured at the British Citizen Award ceremony alongside several volunteers, celebrating years of dedication to supporting girls and women across Bolton.
However, shortly after images from the event were shared online, Patel became the target of racist and Islamophobic comments.
Some critics also focused on her clothing and religious identity rather than her community achievements.
The abuse sparked wider discussion, where attention centred on Patel’s appearance instead of the impact of her work.
Addressing the online abuse, Patel said: “Over the last few days, there has been a lot of negativity and hateful commentary online around my recognition.
“Whilst it has been difficult to witness, it has also highlighted something important: the need for greater understanding, representation and recognition of the positive contributions Muslim women make every single day.”
Despite the backlash, Patel has vowed to continue championing inclusion and creating opportunities for young women.
She said: “It was a privilege to be recognised amongst people who dedicate their time and energy to making a difference in their communities.
“This award is not just about me.
“It represents every girl and woman who has stepped through the doors of KRIMMZ Girls Youth Club, every volunteer who has given their time, every family who has trusted us and every person who believes that sport, opportunity and inclusion should be accessible to all and us.”
KRIMMZ Girls Youth Club is a community-led organisation that promotes social inclusion, physical health, emotional wellbeing and personal development through sport and physical activity.
The club has supported hundreds of girls and women from communities including Rumworth, Great Lever and Halliwell, many of whom previously had limited opportunities to participate in sport.
Patel acknowledged that promoting physical activity as a Muslim woman has presented challenges throughout her journey.
However, she insisted the criticism would not discourage her from continuing her work.
She said: “Being a Muslim woman promoting sport and physical activity, creating spaces for girls and women to thrive, has not always been without challenges.
“But challenges will never stop me from continuing this work.”
Patel also thanked supporters who defended her following the abuse, adding:
“The conversation we should be having is not about division; it is about recognising the positive contributions made by people from all backgrounds.”
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