Liberty Bell

By now news of the Libya cartoon riot has reached the world across the internet. In the article linked, the writer mentions a quote by former president Bill Clinton.

I can tell you, most people in the United States deeply respect Islam … and most people in Europe do.

I generally respect all religions. I believe it is a human’s right to worship a god they choose, both publically and privately. But “in the name of religion” isn’t a valid excuse for your actions. And when innocent people are harmed “in the name of religion” I loose whatever respect I had for that religion.

No American, old enough to hear the news or see the pictures on TV and in the newspaper, will ever forget the tradegy of 9/11. They will not forget the victims - and they will not forget the killers. Most will not forget the words of the hijackers: “Allah is the greatest!” Nearly 3,000 people died that day - 3,000 people died in the name of religion. Because of a “holy war.”

Now the Muslims are rioting against Denmark for publishing cartoons depicting Muhammad. So far at least 29 people have been killed. Why should people be killed because of religion?

So Mr. Clinton will have to forgive me for disagreeing with him. I no longer respect Islam. And Mr. Clinton is going to recieve no support from me regarding the following statement:

…people in the United States have also condemned the publication and they are deeply concerned on it.

I am deeply concerned about the effects of the cartoons. I’m concerned for the lives of the Danish supporters. I’m concerned for the lives of the law enforcement and troops.

I’m deeply concerned at where the world is headed when the freedom of the press and free speech causes the death of innocent people.

Update: Cartoon Protests Leave 15 Dead in Nigeria