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Moroccan atheist: "I have been betrayed by both East and West"
http://www.yourmiddleeast.com/culture/moroccan-atheist-i-have-been-betrayed-by-both-east-and-west_29798Habib founded the Council of Ex-Muslims of Morocco – the first public atheist organisation in a country with Islam as state religion – an act which led to death threats and forced him to live in hiding.
Speaking at the Secular Conference 2015 in London, Habib described how setting up the atheist organisation led to criticism not just from religious institutions, but also from Leftist secular groups.
...
“People who see themselves as ‘anti-racist’ say that Charlie Hebdo brought the massacre upon itself,” said Patel. “Many on the Left are unable to view religious extremism except through an ‘anti-racist’ lens. Despite the most gruesome acts of brutality, many on the Left peddle the idea that Charlie Hebdo was racist.”
...
“Those who condemn the massacre, but blame Charlie Hebdo for offending Muslims have bought into the idea that Muslims are more offended than other minorities,” (Iranian-born Maryam Namazie) said, adding: “There is a long and historical tradition of depicting Muhammed, but it is the fascists and extremists who are thought to represent Islam.”
Speaking at the Secular Conference 2015 in London, Habib described how setting up the atheist organisation led to criticism not just from religious institutions, but also from Leftist secular groups.
...
“People who see themselves as ‘anti-racist’ say that Charlie Hebdo brought the massacre upon itself,” said Patel. “Many on the Left are unable to view religious extremism except through an ‘anti-racist’ lens. Despite the most gruesome acts of brutality, many on the Left peddle the idea that Charlie Hebdo was racist.”
...
“Those who condemn the massacre, but blame Charlie Hebdo for offending Muslims have bought into the idea that Muslims are more offended than other minorities,” (Iranian-born Maryam Namazie) said, adding: “There is a long and historical tradition of depicting Muhammed, but it is the fascists and extremists who are thought to represent Islam.”
Very interesting story and perspective.
