Religion: Religious freedom disregarded by Europe

As I stand in one of the most progressive, modern, global cities in Europe I can feel the undertone of intolerance emanating from the French government. Men, women and children flock to Europe in hope of safety, security and peace. European countries pride themselves on social harmony, inclusion and cultural diversity. This makes Europe dynamic, the smell of freedom fills the warm air. Freedom to write, freedom to speak, freedom to learn without prejudice.

Freedom to practice one’s religion has also been woven into the fabric of Europe since the very beginning, however this is being questioned, nobody anticipated this.
Religious freedom has been one of the shining pillars which holds up Europe. This pillar also holds up America, fortunately for citizens across the pond, the American government has kept its word so far.

U.S. President Barack Obama recognized this very fact in his speech to the Muslim world in Cairo. He said:
"Our second President John Adams wrote, The United States has in itself no character of enmity against the laws, religion or tranquility of Muslims. Since our founding, American Muslims have enriched the United States. They have fought in our wars, they have served in our government, they have stood for civil rights, they have taught at our universities, they have won nobel prizes and built our tallest building".

President Obama also stated in his address that:
"So long as our relationship is defined by our differences, we will empower those who sow hatred rather than peace, those who promote conflict, rather than the co-operation that can help all of our people achieve justice and prosperity. This cycle of suspicion and discord must end".

No state in America has laws that ban minarets, headscarves, or any other kind of Islamic custom which France, Switzerland and other European nations seek to implement. This is a time for Europe to reflect on its past and understand where it came from. Europe must also look at the shining example of tolerance in America which protects the beliefs and practices of its citizens.

There is no competition between Europe and Islam or America and Islam. On the contrary both share the same values of progression, peace and love for all. At this stage of human evolution, development and globalisation we are going to have to live together, so let’s live in peace, love and harmony. Protecting one another’s sentiments, beliefs and practices.

Zubair A. Hayat - founder of THE AHMADIYYA POST