Originally Published in The Press-Enterprise
Re: “Gunmen killed at Muhammad cartoon contest” [News, May 4]: The shootings in Garland, Texas, show the ugly sides of extremism on both ends. To promote hateful abuse in the name of free speech is out of bounds, and to counter this with deadly violence is counterproductive and demeaning to the very prophet being defended. As a Muslim, I believe free speech is a fundamental right which should be protected.
The proper recourse is fruitful dialogue, prayer and patience. The Ahmadiyya Muslim Community has attempted to educate the public on the true message of the Holy Prophet through the Stop the CrISIS campaign and by promoting peaceful dialogue in local mosques and community centers. Educated, open public dialogue is the only solution.
