Letter to the Editor: Bad democracy and bad religion - Baptist News Global

On March 9, U.S. Rep. Andy Ogles of Tennessee posted on X that “Muslims don’t belong in American Society.” I find that statement offensive on many levels. I’ll mention two.

First, the statement is a violation of the United States Constitution. The First Amendment of the Constitution clearly guarantees freedom of religion in America. That includes all religions, not just one preferred religion.

This statement is just as offensive as saying, “Jews, Buddhists or Hindus don’t belong in America.” For that matter, it’s just as offensive as saying, “Baptists, Methodists, Episcopalians or Presbyterians don’t belong in America.”

It’s un-American.

Second, the statement is a violation of the life, example, spirit and teachings of Jesus. The Bible makes clear that Jesus protected marginalized people, respected others and taught us to love our neighbors and welcome strangers. Claiming Muslims don’t belong in America is un-Christian.

When Speaker of the House Mike Johnson was asked about Ogles’ remarks, he claimed his comments resonated with many Americans who view Islam as incompatible with American culture. Johnson said, “There’s a lot of energy in the country and a lot of popular sentiment that the demand to impose Shariah Law in America is a serious problem. … The imposition of Shariah Law is contrary to the U.S. Constitution.”

This assertion that American Muslims are imposing Shariah Law in the United States is patently untrue. It’s simply not happening. For example, how many Americans do you think have had their hands chopped off by the government for shoplifting? If you guessed zero, you would be correct.

Sadly, this kind of irresponsible rhetoric is being used by unscrupulous political and religious leaders to foster prejudice, fear and anger against Muslims and other minorities for political and/or religious purposes.

It may be good politics in Tennessee. But it’s bad democracy. It’s bad religion. And it needs to be challenged.

Martin Thielen, Cookeville, Tenn.