British Muslim woman demands apology from airline who reported her for reading Syrian art book on plane
A British woman is going to court to try and get an apology after she says she was stopped by counter-terror police for reading a Syrian art book.
Faizah Shaheen says Thomson cabin crew reported her to officers after they spotted her reading the book, “Syria Speaks: Art and Culture from the Frontline” as she flew to Turkey on her honeymoon.
Her lawyers told the BBC she was singled out because of her race.
The incident happened last year.
MORE: Police officer numbers at lowest for 30 years
MORE: Crime at highest level for decade
Miss Shaheen, a Muslim, works in mental health care and as part of her job tries to spot early signs of radicalisation among young people.
She was stopped by police at Doncaster Airport as she returned to the UK.
She told the Victoria Derbyshire programme that she was detained for questioning under Schedule 7 of the Terrorism Act.
Interrogated for 30 minutes, she was asked about the book – which is a collection of photographs, songs and cartoons by Syrian artists – and the languages she spoke.
“I felt upset and distressed, followed by anger. I struggled to accept that I was being singled out for reading a book on art and culture,” she explained.
“One year on, Thomson Airways has failed to provide an explanation or apology despite legal involvement.
“This attitude has left me with no option but to seek a declaration from the court under the Equality Act.”
She said she does not want compensation.
Her legal team claims she has been a victim of discrimination.
“We have asked the airline to apologise, to which we have never received a meaningful reply,” said solicitor Ravi Naik.
Thomson said its crew were “trained to report any concerns” as a precaution.
In a statement, it added: “We’re really sorry if Ms Shaheen remains unhappy with how she feels she was treated.
“We wrote to her to explain that our crew undergo general safety and security awareness training on a regular basis.
“As part of this they are encouraged to be vigilant and share any information or questions with the relevant authorities, who would then act as appropriate.”
