The growth of Islamophobia and rising hate rhetoric aimed at ethnic minorities and immigrant communities has become a significant feature of right-wing politics in both Europe and North America. This new politics of hate and fear represents a concerted political strategy on the part of a new right, one which presents a significant challenge to those wishing to create prosperous, tolerant, and diverse societies. It cannot remain unchecked.
The Center for American Progress, in cooperation with Searchlight, will host a transatlantic conversation on the rise of identity politics and its consequences for the future of progressive politics. Bringing together leading analysts and activists from either side of the Atlantic to discuss how best to approach the rise of ultranationalist groups, the conversation will evaluate why Islamophobia and hate rhetoric are on the rise in the United States and the United Kingdom, and the panel will share lessons from their own experiences on the most successful tactics for combating the politics of hate and fear.
Introduction:
John Podesta, President and Chief Executive Officer, Center for American Progress
Keynote address:
Rt. Hon. David Miliband, MP
Panelists:
Faiz Shakir, VP and Editor, ThinkProgress, Center for American Progress Action Fund
Nick Lowles, CEO, Searchlight
Anthony Painter, Author
James Rucker, Co-founder and Executive Director, ColorofChange.org
Eduardo Garcia, Advocacy Associate, Campus Progress
Moderator:
Tara McGuinness, VP of Communications, Center for American Progress Action Fund