Over the last few weeks, I have watched this country spiral out of control. Islamophobia has gone mainstream. Some of my Muslim friends have reached out to me and shared their thoughts, views, and experiences. These aren’t easy stories to listen to or digest. No American – let alone any human being – should live in a climate of bigotry and fear

DR CRAIG CONSIDINE

My fellow Americans,

[dropcap]W[/dropcap]ith Islamophobia rising in the U.S. and with Donald Trump promoting Hitler-esque policies towards Muslims, we must make a strong stand. The time is ripe for Americans of all backgrounds to join in solidarity with their Muslim neighbors. It’s time for a million man march in Washington, DC.

Over the last few weeks, I have watched this country spiral out of control. Islamophobia has gone mainstream. Some of my Muslim friends have reached out to me and shared their thoughts, views, and experiences. These aren’t easy stories to listen to or digest. No American – let alone any human being – should live in a climate of bigotry and fear.

I see great hope in this kind of march. It would be an interfaith, intercultural, interracial, intereverything march – with Muslims leading the way. Muslims, Jews, Christians, atheists, Buddhists, Hindus… everyone. White, black, brown… everyone. A diverse group of people coming together to stamp out racism and promote constitutional rights.

America isn’t perfect. It never has been and it never will be. But we do have a pretty good Constitution. We haven’t always respected it, but that doesn’t mean we shouldn’t now. Let me be clear:

Banning Muslim immigrants from coming to America is Un-Constitutional

Creating a surveillance system for Muslims and Muslims only is Un-Constitutional.

Forcing Muslims to carry special ID’s is Un-Constitutional.

Monitoring mosques – and even shutting down mosques – is Un-Constitutional.

Firebombing mosques is Un-Constitutional.

Hating someone because of their religion is Un-Constitutional.

The Constitution gives all citizens freedom of worship, freedom of religion, freedom of conscience, and separation of Religion and State. It’s time we start living up to our principles. A million man march in Washington is a step in this direction.

Organizing the march is a logistical challenge, but out of great challenges come great rewards. Perhaps a few Islamic organizations and Muslim student groups can take the charge. Behind them will be Christians like myself to provide any help they need. Key speakers from all faith traditions can attend and offer words of wisdom on why standing in solidarity with Muslims is necessary during this time of rising Islamophobia.

As I mentioned, I’m not Muslim. I’m not trying to hijack their narrative. And nor am I attempting to portray myself as someone who knows what it’s like to be Muslim. I’m suggesting the million man march from a different angle – as an American citizen who cares about his community and peers. Furthermore, as a Christian, I’m obliged to love my neighbor and work for a better world of peace and harmony between people of different backgrounds. Some people will claim that I’m abusing my “white privilege” or that I’m really just a “secret Muslim.” These accusations are part of the game as an activist. But let me be honest – my intentions are genuine. This million man march is coming from the heart and soul. Nothing less or more than that. I think America needs this.

I’d be happy to talk more about this idea. Please contact me.

Your comrade,

Craig Considine