Former Oldham council leader Arooj Shah has issued a stark warning about the destructive impact of identity politics, particularly in the context of rising hate and misinformation. Shah's resignation followed local elections that left the council without overall control, underscoring the deep divisions within the community. She emphasizes that the political fragmentation in Oldham, exacerbated by the rise of Reform UK and pro-Gaza independents, serves as a cautionary tale for other regions grappling with similar tensions. The current political stalemate highlights the urgent need for inclusive leadership and collaborative problem-solving. Shah's experience is not isolated. It reflects a broader trend of marginalized communities facing increased hostility and political manipulation.

Shah argues that the far-right and far-left ideologies are both detrimental to community well-being, stoking anger and division. However, she particularly emphasizes how racism and misogyny manifest in insidious ways, pointing to the online dissemination of lies about Labour covering up the town’s grooming gang scandal. Although a safeguarding review found no evidence of such a cover-up, these false narratives were weaponized to intensify horrific abuse against Shah, rooted in her identity as a Muslim woman from a working-class background. The intersectionality of her identity makes her particularly vulnerable to attacks, reflecting the systemic biases that persist within society. She is fighting an uphill battle against entrenched prejudices, proving that identity is not just about personal expression, but a constant struggle for acceptance and survival.

The threats and abuse Shah has endured, including death threats and the torching of her car, underscore the very real dangers faced by women of color in positions of power. The fact that she requires Home Office security to attend public events is a damning indictment of the level of hatred and violence directed towards her. This represents a direct attack on democracy and undermines the ability of marginalized communities to participate fully in political life. Her personal safety is not just a matter of individual concern but a broader issue of systemic injustice that must be addressed.

Despite these challenges, Shah remains committed to the revitalization of Oldham. The ongoing £450 million regeneration scheme, along with the planned opening of an Eton College spin-off academy, demonstrates the potential for economic growth and opportunity. Shah rightly emphasizes the inseparability of economic justice and community cohesion. Class disparities are a key driver of social division and inequality. Furthermore, Shah criticizes Reform UK and the Oldham Group for exploiting migration and the Gaza conflict to further their own political agendas. She argues that such tactics undermine community cohesion and exacerbate existing tensions. A pivotal meeting scheduled for June 15 will determine the future direction of Oldham's leadership and governance. It's a fight against the systems that seek to keep her down, and a fight for a better community that embraces diversity and justice.