SCOTLAND prides itself on many things, one of which, post-referendum, is being progressive.

Another, dating way back, is of being accepting and open-minded.

But if we fail to make Scotland a country where citizens from all religions, ethnicities and nations can live without facing prejudice, then we fail on both counts.

Today delegates will meet in Glasgow for a conference on Islamophobia, with speakers from education and the police, amongst others.

The very need for such a conference shames us and proves how far we are from being truly progressive, accepting and open-minded.

That is not to talk Scotland down, but to talk it up – we are capable of better. Let’s work together to achieve the kind of society we all want – one where the only thing that really matters is the contribution you can make.

It’s not only Muslims who are the victims of 'racialised' Islamophobia in Scotland