It seems there is nothing to generate vicious, delusional attacks from right-wing neocon institutions quite like a positive, successful initiative by the mainstream Muslim community. The public's response to IslamExpo, a 4-day event taking place between 11th and 14th July was phenomenal, bringing together 50,000 members of the public from different backgrounds, faiths and walks of life to engage, interact and in a welcoming and open environment.
The response from neoconservative commentators was equally phenomenal. When many attended the event in the hope of finding something incriminating that could generate a sensational headline but failed to do so, they resorted to fabrications and ludicrous, baseless tirades about "political Islam" and "violent extremism". How this could possibly be connected to the very clearly positive, peaceful objectives of IslamExpo is an astounding display of acrobatic analytical agility that has little to do with the positive, open ethos and objectives of the event.
IslamExpo has been a unique opportunity for people to meet, debate, and exchange perspectives. This was witnessed by the 50,000 visitors and at the over 30 public lectures which saw lively and informed debate representing a huge diversity of perspectives, not to mention the wide array of activities and entertainment. All those who attended had the opportunity to interact with others of different backgrounds, learn about history, culture and art and discuss important and sometimes difficult questions, all in an open and welcoming atmosphere. The attempt to paint this overwhelmingly positive initiative as guided by sinister, shady objectives is based on pure conjecture and chronic paranoia, resorted to in desperation.
This determined campaign, which it appears will not stop at distorting fact if necessary, seems unwilling to allow mainstream Muslims to retain their faith identity while engaging as equal members of society.
These commentators constantly call for Muslims to integrate, engage, be proactive, address problems and demonstrate their loyalty to British society. Yet, if they had looked more closely and honestly at the real message and ethos of IslamExpo, they would have discovered a wonderful initiative that is aimed at doing just that, in an innovative and positive way. IslamExpo 2008 was an overwhelming success that brought individuals of all faiths, cultures and perspectives together in a spirit of open and frank dialogue and mutual respect.
Whether this project is celebrated or demonized, it has undoubtedly demonstrated the coming-of-age of the British Muslim community and its many cultural, artistic, intellectual and social contributions to British society, and will continue to forge valuable opportunities for exchange and mutual understanding for many years to come. |