This nomenclature that is irresponsibly being disseminated through social media, written on protest signs, in the papers, voiced by influential celebrities and political figures is contemptible.
Muslims and other immigrants came to this great country, America to find freedom, some came to escape poverty others seeking political asylum and various other reasons. In other words they sought independence from a bondage that repressed them.
Yet we as Americans speak back to them, "we are you?" No! We are supposed to be exercising our rights as citizens to be individuals and lovers of freedom.
The Statue of Liberty was, and in many cases still is, the first glimpse of anonymity, justice and freedom many immigrants see when they enter our country. This isn't to say all Muslims are immigrants, many are already proud Americans.
Lady liberty says "give me your huddled masses yearning to breathe free..." This itself, The Statue of Liberty, was built to symbolize the freedom of American slaves and the hopes of the French wanting to emancipate themselves from oppression.
Are we as Americans so arrogant to think Muslims, foreign or native, need our help or empathy! We are individuals with our own identities in the United States of America. Let FREEDOM ring!
*The New Colossus, by Emma Lazarus (written on the Statue of Liberty)
*picture credit Pixabay
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