IT IS WITH deep sorrow that we record the loss of Maz Saleem, a powerful anti-racism campaigner, proud Muslim woman, and devoted daughter whose life was defined by an unyielding fight against injustice, inequality and division.

Maz was the daughter of Mohammed Saleem, an 82-year-old grandfather who was tragically murdered by Nazis in Birmingham in 2013 in a racist Islamophobic. From that heartbreaking loss, Maz forged a lifelong mission: transforming personal grief into a relentless, high-energy crusade to protect communities, challenge far-right hate and ensure no family had to endure similar pain.

A fearless voice across the country

Maz possessed a rare combination of fierce principle, radiant warmth and boundless energy. She lit up every room she entered and took her message to nearly every major trade union journal, rally and conference across the United Kingdom.

A central figure in Stand Up To Racism and the Stop the War Coalition, she was a steadfast supporter of the labour and trade union movements, frequently speaking at the Trades Union Congress (TUC).

She was equally passionate in her advocacy for Palestinian rights, working closely as a staunch supporter of the Palestine Solidarity Campaign (PSC) and broader international movements.

Her activism knew no borders:

The Calais ‘Jungle’: Driven by deep international solidarity, Maz travelled directly to refugee camps in Calais, organising aid convoys and bringing crucial supplies, support, and hope to displaced families.

Humanitarian efforts in Syria: She brought that same passion and courage to humanitarian initiatives in Syria, travelling to support affected populations and advocate for those caught in global conflicts.

Challenging online hate: Maz fearlessly confronted big tech platforms and far-right figures, gathering thousands of signatures to demand the removal of Islamophobic literature from Amazon and Facebook, persistently reminding society that “Nazi ideas lead to racist murders on the street, but are also a threat to every democratic society in the world.”

Joy, culture and family

While she was a formidable opponent of hate, Maz lived with vibrant joy. She brought style, fun and charisma wherever she went — whether dressing up to meet friends, expressing her love for fashion, or drawing on her encyclopaedic knowledge of house music.

Her life reflected the famous maxim adopted by Karl Marx: “Nothing human is alien to me.”

Above all, Maz held a boundless, tender love for her family. She was immensely proud of her roots and devoted to her loved ones.

Our deepest, most heartfelt condolences go out to her wonderful family — her beloved brothers and sisters, and the nieces and nephews she adored so deeply. Her strength, warmth, and love will live on through all of them.

Maz Saleem was a hero to many, a fearless campaigner and an unforgettable friend. Her spirit, passion and legacy of solidarity will continue to inspire all who fight for a world rooted in justice, compassion and equality. She will be dearly missed.