We Have Freedom of Religion

 

There were some unfortunate letters published in the St Petersburg Times which spoke fervently against building a mosque near ground zero, and about prejudice suffered by other religions in Muslim countries.

My question to the writers of those letters, and to all the other ‘patriotic’ citizens who feel this way, is:  Exactly what does freedom of religion mean to you?

This is one of the most basic rights guaranteed to us in the Constitution.  It does not say, ‘Except when you’re a Muslim.’  Do not forget that many Muslims lost their lives on 9/11 as well.

My understanding is that the property is owned by the Muslim group that wants to set up the mosque.  It is their private property.  Should we take that away too?  This is a moderate Muslim group that has lived and worshipped here for many years, peacefully, and wants to build a community center.  They are Americans.  They are the kind of Muslims we should encourage and welcome.

I will not compare our Bill of Rights to freedoms offered by other religions in Dubai, Yemen, Egypt or Iran.  I am an American.  I do not want to emulate their culture.

I am grateful every day that I was born here, and that I understand my rights and those of other Americans, no matter what their religion (or lack of one) is.   

Lois Fries, Largo    Club Member