"Take lessons from the examples that you can see"

Is Geert Wilder's film Fitna hate speech? The title of this blog entry comes from an uncredited audio voice over within that film. Based on context it was most likely yelled by a Muslim protestor during unrest around Theo van Gogh's murder. No explicit credit is given.

Obama has committed the same "error" as many Muslims. (I am *not* trying to connect the two, except to note a similar situation, and a common interpretation of the result)

Many people ask the question why Obama did not speak out against Rev. Wright, and note that Obama's silence raises the question of whether he holds the same viewpoints. Obama has stated that he rejects the messages of Rev. Wright without stating which messages he rejects. This gives empty deniability to Obama because if I agree with Wright, then Obama must also agree, and if I disagree with Wright, then Obama also disagrees, right? *sigh*

In parallel fashion, I will ask why Muslims do not speak out against the religiously based violence both between Islamic and non-Islamic religions, and also between Islamic factions? Failure to speak out against these actions leaves open the question of whether they are despised, somewhat accepted, condoned, or even encouraged.

What example do you wish to hold as the ideal? Hold it up and be known for it. Don't make Obama's mistake; be unambiguous about what you encourage and what you despise.

I hold dearly my freedom of speech. My words cannot cause harm -- all a rational person need do is to consider the source and act appropriately. They can ignore me or walk away if they do not agree and choose not to engage.

People do take lessons from the examples they can see.

rootie