Was it right for the DI to publish the cartoons? Let me tell you something. There is a reason why Muslims all around the world have been so furious with the publishing of the comics, so how can our paper expect to republish them without triggering the fury right here on our campus? And there’s a reason why all the large and renowned newspapers throughout the U.S. have so considerately refused to publish them. We understand that the article was condemning the comics, and we appreciate it. But publishing those disgustingly humiliating cartoons was beyond our imagination. Most people are having a hard time figuring out that it is not merely about the cartoons, but what they actually represent. By showing the Prophet, the leader of Muslims, as a terrorist, this puts that label on all Muslims. Knowing that the DI has a reputation for being tolerant and “anti-racism”, I was shocked to find the pictures in it. These cartoons crudely insult the Prophet, Islam, and all Muslims around the world. To call this act insensitive is definitely an understatement. Yes, we all have freedom of speech and press, but does that give us the right to forget all our morals, ethics, and compassion for one another? The emotions and dignity of all Muslims on campus have been so recklessly trampled on. It saddens me to know that such a horrific image has been forced on all Muslims and that people are allowing this false image to live on. People around the world have mastered the art of judging a whole group based on the actions of a significantly miniscule few. What saddens me even more is the fact that most people, including many Americans, know very little about Islam, especially Prophet Mohammed. Many people find it hard to believe that Islam and the Prophet firmly condemn any unnecessary use of violence, let alone terrorism. This lack of knowledge makes it easier for people to be unconsciously swayed by incorrect representations of Muslims, such as these hideous cartoons. I hope that everyone takes this as an opportunity to educate themselves about the truths of Islam and Prophet Mohammed.

Lina El-Beshbeeshy

Arab Student Association President