This one can be directly credited to the Republican presidential hopefuls. Donald Trump, Ted Cruz, and Marco Rubio have cast a pall on all Muslims and created unfair treatment for thousands of Americans. It appears that Nike has joined in the fear mongering and hatred.

A New Yorker by the name of Nabeel Kaukab sought to purchase a pair of Nike’s customized sneakers. It allows the consumer to choose color as well as placing a name or other words on the shoes. There is a list of prohibited words which include profanity, and inciting violence; but ‘Islam’ nor ‘Muslim’ are on that list. However, Mr. Kaukab’s request was denied.

Here are some of the words Nike does allow: “Christ, Hindu, Ku Klux Klan (you can safely go with Ku Klux or K K), Daesh, Al Qaeda, Osama, PLO, IRA, Blood (think of the gang), Pol Pot, Dahmer, Commie or Fascist.”

Citing his request, and questioning Nike’s decision, Mr. Kaukab wrote: “Either you believe the word Islam or Muslim incites violence or they are words that Nike doesn’t want to place on its products?”

The founding fathers of the United States believed that the first amendment was the most important addendum to the Constitution. Is it in danger of being repealed? Those, like myself, who are not Christian, will be treated differently than those who claim to be, but in fact are not. Will hatred incurred by the above named politicians replace the freedoms and rights of all Americans guaranteed by our forefathers?

What I fail to understand is how any individual who claims to be an American and a patriot can support a member of the GOP. They oppose every principle of the men who established this nation as a free and tolerant country. Discrimination, racism, and bigotry are strictly opposed by the Constitution. Allowing one’s self to be ruled by fear, anger, and hatred is demeaning to all of our nation’s people.

If you choose to live in constant fear of terrorism, you are not free. You are under the control of a corrupt group of politicians.

Throughout history religion has been used as an excuse for imperialism. Those who truly believe in their chosen faith do not condone violence. However, men have used Christianity and Islam to commit atrocities over centuries, but only to secure their own desires.

Islamophobia is not natural; it is induced. When a man who seeks to lead our nation denigrates all Muslims, he is not only a fool, he is acting in the same manner as someone who yells fire in a crowded theater. He is inciting violence while playing upon the emotions of those foolish enough to listen to his vile rhetoric.

I want my country back. I condemn those who live privileged lives while claiming to work for the American people.

Bernie Sanders is 100 percent correct; it’s time for a revolution.

Op-Ed

By James Turnage

Source

Photo Courtesy of Kick Photo

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