If people from my background, my country or my community
were committing obvious and heinous acts of terrorism against people, I would
feel it was my duty to say something. I
also would expect people who did not know me to treat me with suspicion, and I
would be ashamed and willing to, as much as I could, show my desire for peace,
and my unequivocal rejection of anyone who committed violence in my supposed
name, for my supposed God, or for my
supposed country. That is a burden I
would have to bear, and I would.
And, quite frankly, I have, to a small degree. Americans have been unpopular my whole life
in Europe. Does that mean I travel
freely abroad, displaying my American rights and my American enthusiasm. Of course not. I understand how other people might see me,
see my country, and when I travel, I do so accordingly. Does that mean I am
perfect? No.
But….If I were Muslim, I would expect it to be my burden to
stop those who were committing treasonous violent acts in my name. I would expect the suspicion from others when
they saw me coming. This is human
nature. I would be infuriated, alarmed,
saddened and angry. But not at people
who weren’t Muslim, but those who are, and who think they are so much more
attuned to God’s great plan, that they are willing to mow down innocent
children at a pop concert, for their supposed God.
Where are you? Why
aren’t you saying something? Why is your
major concern how I am treating you? It’s
not about your rights. It’s about your
obligation. This is your cultural
heritage. Sorry. We all have it. Stand up.
Say something. And if you are for
peace, get it to stop.