Musings about a resolution on Ramadan

Published October 13, 2007

IN THEORY

Musings about a resolution on Ramadan

Q:

A congressional resolution recognizing the Islamic holy month of Ramadan as important is reportedly being touted by U.S. Muslims as an important sign that they are gaining acceptance in America and becoming part of the fabric of the country. But Rep. Tom Tancredo, R-Colo., argued that the resolution is nothing more than an example of political correctness, which he reportedly said has captured the political and media elite in the U.S. What do you think?.

A:

A congressional resolution recognizing Ramadan is certainly an act of political correctness, but then again, so are all these types of resolutions. What else can you say about them? It’s not like they’re advocating one belief system over another, they merely recognize a portion of reality. In so doing, they’re bringing a level of comfort to members of our community — other Americans.

We need to stop being scared to face reality.

There is a sizable Muslim population in America. And the beauty of America and her “dream” is that there is room for everyone in this country. I have heard the argument that “those countries” would never allow or grant non-Islamic minorities the equal status or recognition with the mainstream religion.

But to me, that’s exactly the point.

We are not like the other countries. That’s what makes America great: its ability to incorporate so many into something greater than the components that make it up.

Ironically, this week’s news headlines pointed to another recognition resolution regarding the Armenian Genocide.

We witnessed the sad demonstration of denial by the political establishment, the president included, which wanted to compromise truth and justice for the sake of politics.

You can’t escape the reality of an organized, systematic annihilation of one group of people by a government. Its called genocide.

And a great country like America, with all of its greatness, cannot be intimidated to not speak the truth.

Fr. Vazken Movsesian

Armenian Church

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