U.N. resolution off mark
Sardar Anees Ahmad
Waterloo

The United Nations recently passed an anti-blasphemy resolution on behalf of the Organization of Islamic Countries. Talk about the blind leading the blind. While claiming the resolution will protect mankind against affronts "to human dignity," these very countries recklessly pander to extremists and consequently hold some of the worst human rights records today.

In truth, the resolution is not calling for a ban on anti-religious rhetoric but on anti-extremist rhetoric. While hell was raised over the unjust Danish caricatures, the OIC was completely silent during the unveiling of the hurtful photography exhibitions "Piss Christ" by Andre Serrano and "Ecce Homo" by Elisabeth Ohlson Wallin and the Taliban's destruction of the Buddhas of Bamyan. Now that it has passed human rights activists, academics and religious minorities will be demonized, censured and, where possible, persecuted to the fullest extent the law allows or, quite possibly, beyond it.

It is ironic that while the resolution was passed to condemn anti-Islamic rhetoric, the Qur'an forbids such action be taken. While ethically condemning blasphemy five times, ultimately the Qur'an instructs man to avoid such company until they change their behavior.

Now, I have friends from every religious or non-religious background. Never have I had to ask them to bite their tongue regarding Islam -- not because I let anything go, but because it never goes there. It is clear that the resolution will only fan more unwarranted ill will toward Islam. A welcoming smile and dialogue would be far more effective than imposing law on others with a trademark grimace.