Yesterday, at the CSD Berlin Pride - one of Germany's biggest Pride events, a murder occurred. A van hit the crowd, killing one person and injuring 16 others.

The motives behind this horrendous act are still under investigation. The police were quick to identify the suspect as a 'member of Berlin's Islamist scene'. While Islamist extremism is a real issue, we cannot tolerate the collective blame and smear campaigns that this attack will inflict on innocent people by the far-right propaganda machine, based solely on their identity.

This attack should never be used as an excuse to demonise Muslims, refugees or queer people. Any violent form of religion should be treated in accordance with the law. Islamophobia only causes harm, it never protects anyone. Instead of targeting people who have been vilified, isolated and dehumanised, we must confront violent ideologies.

We are deeply saddened by this tragedy. Our thoughts are with those affected and their loved ones. We are extremely grateful to the hardworking healthcare personnel tending to those who have been hurt.