To call someone a terrorist or claim they have terrorist connections is a serious charge. This is not a charge that should be made without significant evidence. Anyone accused has a right to know the evidence. If we allow people in our government to simply label whoever they want a terrorist and take away their privileges, each one of us is in danger of losing our freedom.
Before reading Manya Brachear’s article, I didn’t know who Tariq Ramadan was. I have conducted research that has included reading portions of his books and watching interviews on YouTube. I have found no evidence Ramadan is a man who promotes terrorism.
He certainly promotes Islam and there are going to be plenty of people who have a problem with that. Based on my research, the Professor preaches a peaceful message of Muslim integration in the Western world while keeping certain Islamic principles.
If there is real evidence of terrorist connections, I would like to know exactly what that evidence is. Without knowledge we have no basis for judgment. Ramadan, just like anyone else, should also have a reasonable opportunity to defend themselves against any charges.
Do I agree with the Islamic professors’ message of promoting Islam? I do not. Ramadan presents one of my numerous competitors. I promote a wide spectrum of ancient philosophy over specific supernatural religious beliefs.
This does not mean I feel threatened by the professor or fearful of his goal to promote Islam in the West. It means I disagree and would love to argue with the man.
I hold no bias against Ramadan for being a Muslim. I am educated and intelligent enough to understand the vast majority of Muslims are among the most generous and kind people in the world. I also understand the Qur’an, just like other religious text, can be interpreted in many different ways. The interpretation is based on the bias and character of the reader.
“Seek knowledge from the cradle to the grave.” – Prophet Muhammad (570-632)
James Kirk Wall, author of To Be an Agnostic: An Agnostic Approach to Life, Liberty and the Pursuit of Happiness
