Religious Conflict Hits London Streets

Andrew Pauley
9-25-09
10:30am

Hundreds of London police have had to separate mainly Muslim protesters from a small group of rival demonstrators who were calling for an end to what they describe as Islamic terrorism in Britain. It was one of a series of clashes between the English Defence League and various Muslim groups that in recent days have left a number of people injured and under arrest. Eventually the threats and abuse ended. The march moved on and the English Defence League supporters were left stuck in the pen. Some complaining to police they needed to go to the toilet.
But not all these recent confrontations have ended so peacefully. In Harrow in London there were pitched battles between mainly Muslim youths and the police who were trying to protect English Defence League followers who had come to protest outside the mosque. A week before there were more injuries and arrests during similar clashes in Birmingham.
It is a worrying trend. So far no one has been killed but if that changes, what have been isolated incidents could become something far more serious, riots defined by color and religion. The police are doing everything they can to avoid it.

My response to this has to be a little bit middle ways on this. I don’t agree with any hatred of an entire race or ethnic group, but I do believe that certain ill feelings are justified. The problem is when people address their anger and problems toward a generic group. No one person speaks for an entire race or ethnic group’s beliefs and feelings toward those other races, countries, or ethnic groups. There are many Arabs and Arab-Americans that support the U.S. and truly believe that what happened and what is still happening through terrorism is wrong and in no way, shape, or form justifiable. Islam, Christian, or whatever religion, most recognized religions have non-violent teachings and beliefs. They don’t call those certain few radicals, “radicals” for no reason. They do not represent their religion, country, or ethnic group as a whole. Yes, those actions are ignorant and the people that act them out are ignorant. On the other hand though, those who cannot separate their feelings toward the specific person or cause from a much larger group or belief system are ignorant as well. I think protesters and activists are great but we all as people, not just protesters and activists, should learn to focus our energy in opposing terrorism or any other social problems toward more specific sources. If not we then, instead, are not helping but rather putting logs on the fire of racism and hatred.

ABC Radio Australia
Presenter: Philip Williams, Europe correspondent
http://www.radioaustralia.net.au/connectasia/stories/200909/s2685122.htm