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As we enter December is is a joy to see the lights come on and the decorations go up as the community around Tooting, Balham, Furzedown and Earlsfield prepare for Christmas. Switch-on events are happening for Christmas lights at the following locations:
Wandsworth Town Festival The Christmas Festival will be a full day of festive fun. There is a market packed with great food and gifts, live performances, and families can visit Santa. Their will also be a charity raffle supporting Wandsworth Foodbank Date: Saturday 6th December Time: 10am to 5pm (switch-on at 4.30pm) Location: Southside Shopping Centre and the Ram Quarter  Local Churches and community groups are also coming together to celebrate the season. Some local favourites are back as well as some exciting new events:
 The annual Balham and Tooting Community Association (BATCA) interfaith peace ceremony is always a powerful moment for our community. This week, it was an honour to join so many local people to reflect on the importance of unity and understanding. Here in Tooting, our diversity is one of our greatest strengths, and events like this showcase the incredible spirit that brings us all together.
Our community is defined by its deep-rooted tolerance and mutual respect. Now more than ever, it is vital that we continue this tradition, listen to one another, and build bridges between different faiths and cultures. By continuing to work together, we can ensure that understanding triumphs over discord and build a more peaceful future for everyone. Wishing everyone observing in Tooting and across the world a Happy Diwali today. Diwali is a time to come together and remember that light will always triumph over darkness.  On ITV's Peston, I reflected on my upbringing with a Polish mother and Pakistani father who were warmly welcomed into the community. I believe it is crucial for us to learn from our diverse communities who embody cohesion so well. Divisive language unfortunately carries significant consequences, impacting the fabric of our society. I will always championed understanding, compassion and tolerance. I firmly condemn the abhorrent arson attack that occurred at a mosque in Peacehaven. There is absolutely no place for islamophobia or hatred within our communities, in Tooting or elsewhere. Everyone must be able to worship freely, safely, and without fear of discrimination. I will always stand up for religious freedom and tolerance across our country.
I will continue to work with police and local mosques to keep our local Muslim community safe. It is truly horrifying to see the events unfold in Manchester today on such a holy day in the Jewish calendar today.
My thoughts were with all those affected by these deeply upsetting incidents during a period meant for peace and contemplation. I sent my prayers and solidarity to everyone impacted. We must always stand up to the vile hatred and antisemitism that seeks to divide communities. Wishing everyone in Tooting and across the country a very Happy Passover today.  I wish everyone in Tooting and beyond a peaceful and blessed Eid. My thoughts and prayers are especially with all those facing hardship and suffering at this time.  Sending my best wishes to everyone in Tooting and around the world. I hope you have a blessed Ramadan. Special thoughts and prayers going to Palestinians and all Muslims around the world enduring hardship and suffering at this time.  Tonight, I joined with representatives of all faiths and none at the BATCA annual peace ceremony in Tooting. Thank you to everyone for their prayers of peace. They are needed now more than ever and I am so proud to represent such a wonderful, caring community.
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