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I am not Muslim, but feel very concerned about growing islamophobia, not just here, but in all of the U.S. and in Europe. I worry that politically conservative extremists are spinning a message of fear and hatred.  Instead of challenging the fear and hatred, the media reports it as "news" and gives it credibility.  Economically, times are hard, we are involved in senseless wars and there is a lot of angst among many people about the security of their futures.  That is when it becomes dangerously easy to find a scape-goat.  I am very worried that the right wing in this country is creating this scape-goating histeria toward Muslims.

It would be so great if Portland could be different.  My dream would be that we could show that we are a community that comes together and truly honors and respects everyone--of all faiths and nationalities. 

As a community, we are only as strong as the compassion and understanding that we hold as our standard.  Once we have lost that, any one of us could be a victim. 

posted 2 years, 5 months ago
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