More on Minarets
The Swiss measure is a clear infringement on religious freedom
The ban on the construction of minarets in Switzerland has sparked a great deal of controversy and debate. As Sam correctly points out, whether this decision is justified hinges on what exactly freedom of religion entails. The political parties who introduced the measure argue that the decision does not infringe on religious freedom, contending that the minaret is not merely a religious symbol but “a political symbol against integration.” They explain that many Muslims associate the minaret with a rejection of the Swiss political and legal system in favor of Sharia law.
However, these feelings illustrate Swiss citizens projecting broader concerns onto an Islamic symbol, rather than the symbol itself serving as a shrine to religious fundamentalism.
As the LA times editorial states:
It would be just as accurate to say that the Christian cross is a symbol of the Spanish Inquisition or the violence committed by Crusaders against Muslims.
For some Muslim extremists, the minaret may indeed serve as a symbol of political power and Sharia law; but if these symbols can be outlawed because of what they represent to some, religious freedoms rest on shaky ground. Banning the minaret because of what it symbolizes to a small percentage of the Muslim community is excessive and insensitive.
Further, it is entirely unclear how the measure will combat fundamentalism or help Muslims integrate into Swiss society. Banning minarets may remove a visible sign of Islamic influence, but it does nothing to address the underlying issues that created this tension in the first place.
Religious practices and cultural traditions should not be off limits to criticism. Integration of Muslims immigrants into European society requires concessions on both sides. However, when we restrict religious freedoms, these laws should serve a clear and essential purpose, and be narrowly tailored to fulfill the desired ends; this measure fulfills neither of the criteria.
-Luke
Related posts:
- Do two wrongs make a right?
- A minaret too far
- Liberalism and the burqa
- France vs. the burqa
- Can you have a republican, religious state?
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