Gen. Powell Prompts National Conversation on Religious Diversity
Former Sec. of State Colin Powell honored on Sunday Cpl. Kareem Khan, an American Muslim soldier killed in 2007 while serving in Iraq. Citing Cpl. Khan's service and ultimate sacrifice, he strongly urged all Americans - politicians and voters alike - to uphold America's respect for religious pluralism by challenging bigotry and prejudice aimed at minority communities including American Muslims. A number of respected media commentators and newspapers including the New York Time's Maureen Dowd and Washington Post's editorial board strongly echoed these sentiments and urged inclusion and respect for all in confronting America’s most pressing challenges.
Gen. Powell’s words on NBC’s "Meet the Press":
"Is there something wrong with being a Muslim in this country? The answer is no. That's not America. Is there something wrong with a seven-year-old Muslim-American kid believing he or she could be president? … This is not the way we should be doing it in America."
"Meet the Press" Clip
Relevant Reading:
Washington Post: What Colin Powell Also Said
Editorial | Oct. 21
NY Times: Moved by a Crescent
Maureen Dowd | Oct. 21
Forbes.com: Why Powell Endorsed Barack Obama: A Tribute to Kareem Khan
Trailwatch Blog | Oct. 20
