Salman Rushdie

We live in a society in which writing and speaking uncomfortable truths and opinions face attack. The assault on Salman Rushdie is a reminder of the cost of freedom.  Elements of a religious hierarchy were offended many years ago by his writings. Over the years he has had to go into hiding and people associated with his work I’ve been attacked and in at least one case killed.

The kind of thinking that lies behind what has happened in New York has also gained increased position in our society and in the Episcopal Church. “I’m offended so you must be shut down, silenced, shunned.” Most involved in such thinking will say they don’t mean that to go as far as violence. It’s a paper thin rationalization. Ideas we find offensive are to be engaged with listening, humility, openness, courage, and persistence. Dialogue and discussion are the appropriate tools. Threats, outrage and attempts to silence others are simply wrong.

My own interest in this goes back to the years when Mr. Rushdie was first under attack. Here’s an article from that time.

I hope you will include Salman Rushdie in your prayers and continue in the struggle for a humble and free church and society.

rag+

Comments

[Richard Proctor]

Thanks for reminding me to add Salmon Rushdie to my prayers. I will light a candle for him at Morning Prayer tomorrow. I have been reading about the attack, but sadly did not turn that into a prayer.