MEMRI
Interviewer: Once again, I greet you from the USA, and specially, from New York. Today’s topic is the American Islamic organizations.
Nihad Awad: In my view, Islam and the US are twins, linked by common values. The values on which the US was founded are the same values advocated by Islam: freedom, and especially freedom of religion, freedom of speech, protection of minorities, and spreading justice among all sectors of society.
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The combination of my American nationality and the practice of my Islamic religion creates a beautiful blend, I believe. This is a civilized blend, which proves that Islam flourishes in an atmosphere of freedom, and spreads freedom, justice, and equality. Every day I live as an American-Muslim citizen, I rediscover the firm bonds between the humane system that the US created for its people, and the values advocated by Islam. This marriage of Islam and the US will be the best suited for humanity, because the Islamic values are divine values, conveyed by Allah. The Prophet Muhammad lived by these values, and Muslims today must rise to their level. The US is not perfect, but it is moving “toward a more perfect union.”
I read Nihad’s opening sentence in amazement. I then read through the interview. (Surely he’s joking and soon, I’ll get to the joke.) I used to think that people like him were just lying. As an old fart, I’ve come to understand that he actually believes what he’s saying.
Right, Nihad. I share your values////S
Steven