Ipswich politicians have called out negative and "inflammatory, derogatory and Islamophobic" remarks surrounding the celebration of Eid.
Ipswich's first-ever open-air Eid Al Fitr was held on the lawn of Christchurch Park's Mansion on Wednesday.
Eid Al Fitr Salaah is the congregational prayer that marks the end of Ramadan, the Islamic holy month of fasting, and lasts for three days.
However, comments branded “appalling” by Ipswich Borough Councillor Ruman Muhith, were left online and on this paper's article about the event.
The Labour and Co-operative parliamentary candidate for Ipswich, Jack Abbott, also labelled the comments “abhorrent”.
He said: “Over 500 people celebrated Eid-Al-Fitr in Christchurch Park, Ipswich, to mark the end of Ramadan.
“It was a historic occasion, the first time ‘Eid in the Park’ has taken place in the town.
“However, there can be no getting away from the fact that, alongside the well-wishers, there were also a significant number of inflammatory, derogatory and Islamophobic statements made online.
“Thousands of Muslims live in Ipswich, making a huge contribution to our town. To see our friends and neighbours face such hostility is abhorrent.
“I believe our town is better than the abuse we have seen today, and the people living here, of all faiths and cultures, deserve better too.
“As I said in my column last week, Ipswich is at its best when we celebrate together, revel in each other’s company and are hopeful for the future.
“We can be proud of Ipswich’s diversity and sense of community but we must never tolerate the hatred we have seen today.”
Cllr Muhith said he “completely agreed” with the statement.
Ipswich Borough Councillor Colin Kreidewolf also criticised the online attacks and said: “Eid in Christchurch Park, great, the park is for everyone. Other religions can hold cermeonies too and do, just ask.
Suffolk Police added: “Suffolk Constabulary takes hate crime seriously and social media users should be aware that posting online is not anonymous and those posting can be prosecuted where posts are deemed to break the law. Suffolk officers will investigate those reports where it is alleged a crime has taken place.
“Equally, social media users are also encouraged to immediately report any comments to social media companies who can take swift action in removing these and those users who may breach their respective rules.”
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