Many countries around the world are facing a dilemma at the moment.
It is the issue of political satire vs. freedom of speech.
As some of you know, Denmark has been in the spotlight with the mohammad cartoon controversy. It's a very difficult situation because it has divided people between the constitutional right of freedom of speech and political satire which offends the fundamentalists of the Islamic/Muslim faith. An art gallery in Germany had to close its exhibition because of threats from fundamentalists because there was one picture they found offensive. But the whole exhibition was about many religions and "isms" and no one else reacted as they did. I don't believe in poking fun at others - but there is a huge difference between being able to laugh at yourself and issuing death threats if someone has a different opinion.
Little Denmark is an old country with many old traditions. When people didn't agree on things, they talked them out - and even agreed to disagree!But now there are bombings and death threats that were virtually unknown to this country.
I believe that if you move to a new country that gives you opportunities you never had before - it's important to become apart of that society and give back what was given - not try and make it a copy of the place you came from.
I found the following on the internet written by the former prime minister of Australia, John Howard. I think it sums up the issue.
Thanks for reading. - this is must my opinion blowing in the wind.
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The 'IMMIGRANTS, NOT AUSTRALIANS, MUST ADAPT. Take It Or Leave It. I am tired of this nation worrying about whether we are offending some individual or their culture. Since the terrorist attacks on Bali , we have experienced a surge in patriotism by the majority of Australians.'
'This culture has been developed over two centuries of struggles, trials and victories by millions of men and women who have sought freedom'
'We speak mainly ENGLISH, not Spanish, Lebanese, Arabic, Chinese, Japanese, Russian, or any other language. Therefore, if you wish to become part of our society . Learn the language!'
'Most Australians believe in God. This is not some Christian, right wing, political push, but a fact, because Christian men and women, on Christian principles, founded this nation, and this is clearly documented. It is certainly appropriate to display it on the walls of our schools. If God offends you, then I suggest you consider another part of the world as your new home, because God is part of our culture.'
'We will accept your beliefs, and will not question why. All we ask is that you accept ours, and live in harmony and peaceful enjoyment with us.'
'This is OUR COUNTRY, OUR LAND, and OUR LIFESTYLE, and we will allow you every opportunity to enjoy all this. But once you are done complaining, whining, and griping about Our Flag, Our Pledge, Our Christian beliefs, or Our Way of Life, I highly encourage you take advantage of one other great Australian freedom,
'THE RIGHT TO LEAVE'.'
'If you aren't happy here then LEAVE. We didn't force you to come here. You asked to be here. So accept the country YOU accepted.'
Maybe if we circulate this amongst ourselves, American & us citizens will find the backbone to start speaking and voicing the same truths.
