In the court of public opinion, someone can be judged to be doing the right thing, when actually it's very wrong.
Such is the case with the burning of a Quran in north central Florida last Saturday evening. Many of the people I've spoken with since seem to think it was perfectly okay. They see it, I guess, as an enjoyable show of disrespect for the religion of those who attacked America on 9/11.
What they are not seeing, however, are the possible ramifications--including violent retaliation against our troops in Afghanistan and elsewhere around the world.
Fortunately, the world, in general, and America, in particular, have leaders who speak out responsibly to change attitudes when they are wrong. Examples are the present Pope and our current President--both of whom spoke out strongly against the burning of Qurans back in 2009 when it first became an issue.
Their efforts helped to create a ripple effect of reasonable thinking that is slowly, but steadily turning the tide of public opinion against Islamophobia.
Wednesday, May 2, 2012
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Since we embrace political correctness in this nation at every opportunity, the Florida minister who committed the "unpardonable sin" of burning the Quran should have recognized the necessity of burning several other "holy" books along with it to deflect any criticism. Islamophobia will never die out now that its dark, intolerant and irrational side has been exposed as a threat to our hallowed freedoms and institutions and become implanted as such in the culture psyche of the people of this country. As a test, Bill, try writing something mildly critical of the Prophet and see how long it takes before a Fatwa is issued against you. Before you do, however, it would be wise to arrange to enter the Witness Protection Program.
ReplyDeleteripple effect of U.S foriegn policy---the U.S. has been using drones to kill innocent civilians-men, women, and children in Afghanistan, Pakistan, Yemen, and now Phillipines. The U.S. says the "host government" approved drone attacks therefore it is ok---but what does that matter to the survivors of U.S terrorism? Innocent people killed for political purposes......where are the "moderate Americans" who protest against this? I don't hear their voices........
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