Bradford City Centre Hosts Unveiling of Multi-Faith Festive Tree

A multi-faith festive tree was unveiled in Bradford city centre. Representatives from the city’s diverse faith communities attended the ceremony, which took place earlier in Centenary Square. During the event, each representative affixed a bauble to the 15 ft (4.5m) tall fir tree. This tree is positioned near another tree of similar size in the parade space outside City Hall, with both trees having been provided by Bradford Council. The Black Asian and Minority Ethnic (BAME) Business Community organized this event. Its purpose was to commemorate the “positive way” in which the city and its broader district embrace multiculturalism. Saleem Kader, a member of this group, which is affiliated with the West and North Yorkshire Chamber of Commerce, commented. Mr. Kader stated, “It [the tree] represents the city and the baubles on there represent the various businesses that come from different backgrounds that work throughout the city. “This event is really to celebrate how well we exhibit multicultural existence in Bradford and I think it’s important to remind people of this.”” Mr. Kader, who has operated Bombay Stores for nearly six decades, acknowledged the current financial difficulties but asserted that businesses in Bradford possess a “fighting spirit.” He added, “I think the message has to be keep doing what you’re good at, keep being proud of the city and proud of Bradford…and proud of being a Bradfordian.” Ilyas Master, a businessman from Bradford and a prominent figure in the Muslim community, remarked, “I’m here to show the community spirit, but also how we can work together.” Bradford’s Hindu community was represented by Jayanti Mistry, who operates a security systems company. Mr. Mistry stated he had lived in the city for the majority of his life and was present at the unveiling to celebrate, hoping it would become an annual event. Mr. Mistry stated, “This event brings the community and all the faiths together to celebrate this special season of joy together.”