Recent commentary around the BBC’s use of the word “revert” in an article about Muslim converts during Eid has reignited a recurring but often misunderstood conversation about terminology. As someone involved in work that supports and represents people who embrace Islam later in life, I’d like to offer some clarity and context.

For many people who become Muslim, the terms “convert”, “revert”, or even simply “new to' or having 'Embraced Islam” are used interchangeably — sometimes within the same conversation. Each term reflects a different dimension of what it means to make an informed personal choice to follow a new spiritual path.

"Convert to Islam" is the most commonly used term in English, and accurately describes someone who has made the conscious decision to accept the teachings of Islam as revealed to the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him).

"Revert to Islam" is a term some Muslims use to reflect a theological belief that every human being is born with an innate disposition (known in Arabic as _fitrah_ ) to know and submit to their Creator. In this view, becoming Muslim is seen as a return to that original spiritual state. This is not an alien or extremist belief — it is a longstanding part of Islamic tradition shared across Muslim cultures and centuries.

“New to Islam” or “having embraced Islam” are equally valid ways individuals describe their journeys — respectful, inclusive, and free from connotation.

These terms are not signs of radicalism, extremism, or rejection of British values — quite the opposite. People who embrace Islam in Britain often do so as part of a profound search for meaning, purpose, and community. They continue to be a vibrant, diverse, and constructive part of wider British society.

Attempts to stir controversy over this terminology often say more about those trying to manufacture outrage than those on the receiving end. While it's fair to expect mainstream media to use accessible and widely understood language — “convert” is arguably clearest in that regard — the broader conversation should be one of understanding, not accusation.

Individuals who embrace Islam have the right to describe their spiritual journey using terms such as 'convert,' 'revert,' in accordance with their personal beliefs and expressions. These choices are protected under the fundamental freedoms of thought, conscience, and religion, and should be respected as reflections of their individual faith experiences.

Let’s not allow prejudice or ignorance to obscure the very real and human stories behind these labels.

Batool Al Toma

CEO

Convert Muslim Foundation