Amy Mek
Nine months have passed since the renowned author Salman Rushdie was subjected to a brutal stabbing while on stage during a lecture on freedom of expression, perpetrated by an individual of the Muslim faith. Now, emerging from the shadows, Rushdie steps into the public eye once more, delivering a rare and impactful video message to the British Book Awards, where he was awarded the Freedom to Publish award on Monday evening. Having lived a life plagued by unrelenting death threats, Rushdie issues a stark warning, asserting that the cherished freedom of expression in the Western world is teetering on the edge of grave danger. As one of the most celebrated literary figures of our time, Rushdie’s personal ordeal casts a piercing light on the immense challenges faced by those who dare to question Islam and kindle the flames of critical thinking. The harrowing jihad attack against him serves as a chilling reminder, emphasizing the inherent risks undertaken by individuals who exercise their right to express their beliefs and challenge the tenets of Islam.
Controversy
Salman Rushdie, born in British India in 1947, is an acclaimed author who has written 19 books. While his novel “Midnight’s Children” earned him the prestigious Booker Prize, his fourth novel, “The Satanic Verses,” thrust him into the center of a global controversy. The book’s content, considered blasphemous by the Muslim world, led to Ayatollah Khomeini issuing a fatwa in 1989, calling for Rushdie’s death and the killing of those involved in the publication.
Violence and Censorship
The publication of “The Satanic Verses” triggered a wave of violent reactions worldwide. Publishers and bookstores faced bomb threats and attacks, while translators and publishers were targeted and even killed. In addition, the book was banned in several countries, including India, Bangladesh, Sudan, South Africa, and others. The response to Rushdie’s work highlighted the alarming reality of how perceived violations of religious orthodoxy can lead to violence and murder and how freedom of expression is silenced in the face of such threats.
Celebration of Violence
The shocking attack on Rushdie by Hadi Matar, a young Muslim terrorist, was met with celebration and praise by many Muslims and leaders of Islamic nations. Iranian state media and extremist groups hailed the assailant as a hero and champion of Islam. The response from Muslim organizations offering financial rewards for Rushdie’s assassination further underscores the dangerous climate created by extremist ideologies. This celebration of violence in the name of defending religious sensibilities undermines the values of tolerance and free speech that form the bedrock of democratic societies.
Silence and Submission
The global response to Rushdie’s ordeal exposed a disheartening reality—the silence and lack of support from publishers, politicians, and diplomats who failed to speak out against the threats and violence. The fear of backlash or accusations of Islamophobia has allowed for the stifling of critical discourse and the erosion of free speech rights. The Red/Green Axis, the strategic alliance between the left and Islamic supremacists, has further complicated the matter, as both groups aim to suppress dissent and promote their ideological agendas.
The Ongoing Threat
The attack on Rushdie and the subsequent response from Islamic organizations and governments highlight a more significant issue—the concerted effort to criminalize speech deemed critical of Islam. The Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC), supported by influential countries and aided by the United Nations, seeks to implement global blasphemy laws that silence any criticism of the Islamic religion. Introducing terms like “Islamophobia” and “hate speech” into legal frameworks poses a significant threat to freedom of expression. It serves as a tool to suppress open dialogue and critique.
Salman Rushdie’s harrowing experience is a stark reminder that freedom of expression in the West is under grave threat. The violent attack on Rushdie, the celebration of his assailant by extremist groups, and the ongoing efforts to silence criticism of Islam all highlight the urgent need to safeguard the fundamental right to free speech. It is crucial for publishers, politicians
RAIR Foundation
I remember 1989 very well. Bookstores were pulling his book of the shelves too. Lately, the marxist governments are setting up disinformation bureaus, where they(marxist-satanists)are the arbiter of truth. Of course, the media lapdogs play into this charade. Looks like the dirtbags here in the States are trying to provoke civil unrest, and then declare martial law. Next come the firearms confiscation, asset confiscation, and death camps. The police are willing accomplices. So the people that say back the blue don’t understand communism and tyranny very well.
Couldn’t agree with you more. Spot on.
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