The New Crusade

[kandrathe]

Because I notice a lack of good information here I will give you some backgrounds.
...

Yes, I realize that these 3 people in particular brought the attention onto themselves by excercising their freedoms of speech. Theo in particular flaunted his boldness and audacity, then rode around Amsterdam without bodyguards. Was it a terroristic act? Yes, since it was a clear warning to others in Europe that there are "Sacred" cows, and if you cross the line (with them, and its their line) there will be consequences. Geert, also boldy speaks his mind, and in so doing makes himself a target. Does he deserve it? No. No more than any talking head or politician does for expressing an opinion. We can disagree, and we can turn off the tube or radio, but we never have the right to make death threats or execute them because of what someone says (even if its on film).

I believe Ayaan Hirsi Ali was poorly treated by her party and government. I think it has now been revealed that she actually did qualify for refugee status from her homeland. Good Salon article about her being outspoken. {note: you can read the whole article if you suffer through an advertisement}

Salon: Many have criticized your film as being too radical and too offensive.

Ayaan Hirsi Ali: The criticism of van Gogh was legitimate. But when someone is killed for his worldview, what he may have done wrong is no longer the issue. That's when we have to stand up for our basic rights. Otherwise we are just reinforcing the killer and conceding that there was a good reason to kill this person.

There are similiarly insulting and controversial people in America, we tend not to kill them or allow them to be killed just for being outspoken.