Are Muslims a part of the American story?
Mike Ghouse
We are not connected enough with the mainstream society for vast majority of Americans to stand up for us, empathize with us or even understand the truth about us that we are no different than them in our endeavors and aspirations. We must however express our gratitude to the millions of Americans who have stood up for us, compelled by their sense of justness and fair play. Continue
Obviously Muslims are, and should be, a part of the American story.
ReplyDeleteWhile we may be a fractious society in the best of times, it is our ability to draw upon our differing cultures and backgrounds that ultimately makes us stronger. On a more direct level, I read years ago a commentary regarding the history of the 2nd Amendment in America. They noted that in a letter to Thos. Jefferson he was taken to task for the lack of a religious test in the Constitution. The writer said (in effect), "without a religious test what is to prevent a Mooslem or a Jew from holding office." In his response Jefferson is reported to have said, "if they are the best person to hold office I would hope that the only question asked of them would be their service." NOTE: It has been 15 years since I read the book so neither quote is direct but paraphrased.