CAPTION.
CREDIT
The burning of the Koran is a disgrace, and civilized uproar is warranted (“Obscene Apologies,” Michael A. Walsh, PostOpinion, April 5).
But it’s too bad there isn’t as much anger and animosity displayed when our symbol of freedom, the American flag, is also burned, spat upon, urinated and defecated on, all in the name of art or freedom of expression.
B. Donnelly
Highland Mills
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After 9/11, when the Bush administration and Congress legislated the loss of many American liberties, some were quick to point out the words of Benjamin Franklin: “They who can give up essential liberty to obtain a little temporary safety deserve neither liberty nor safety.”
In that situation, those words were relevant and to the point, but today they ring out truer than ever.
Are Americans to sacrifice our rights and liberties out of fear of the violent reaction of a backward, bigoted and murderous people?
Alex Combs
West Bloomfield, Mich.
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Lest we forget, our soldiers die every day around the world to protect our right to protest.
The only response to this horrific incident should be to let our Air Force turn this country into the world’s largest parking lot.
John Comparetto
Nanuet
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I deplore the burning of the Koran by Jones or anyone who engages in the destruction of things that are worshiped by others. But the Muslims who went on a rampage, killing people, had nothing to do with an act of desecration by a singular nutcase.
The president of Afghanistan, Hamid Karzai, demands that the United States bring the Koran-burner to justice. Is there no one who sees the absurdity of those who insult, maim and kill just for the sake of killing?
Joseph Ceder
Far Rockaway
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Protesters in Afghanistan burned the American flag and killed at least two UN staffers to protest Rev. Terry Jones’ burning of a Koran.
Islam must not be granted a protected status while other religions, such as Christianity, are vilified.
The NEA sponsored a crucifix in a vat of urine and a rendition of the Virgin Mary smeared with elephant dung and told us it was art. But any depiction of Mohammed results in a fatwa of death, as happened with the Dutch cartoonists.
I am glad Jones highlighted this issue.
Elaine Pacheco
Winsted, Conn.