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American Jihad

A BUZZFLASH READER CONTRIBUTION
by Andrew Mancini

Every time I listen to President Bush talking about Islamic fundamentalists or Radical Islamists, I find it a bit difficult to stifle a laugh. Few would argue that Islamic extremists threaten tranquility within their own nations; however, what I find so amusing is that Mr. Bush chooses to ignore the stain of fundamentalism within not only his own country, but his own party.

The GOP rode the horse of Christian fundamentalism into control of all three branches of government. And now that they have power, they seem ever so willing to use it to further their own narrow views, regardless of both public opinion and constitutionality.

From "faith-based initiatives" to school vouchers, from anti-abortion litmus tests to "intelligent design," there is a well-defined Christian initiative to trample not only well-established science, but to demonize all those that disagree with their literal Bible-based definitions of morality.

While we may escape another Inquisition or a series of witch trials, the threat to personal and academic freedom can be ignored no longer. It's our country, too ... and it's time to take it back. Freedom again needs to be on the march, but not in Baghdad or Kabul. Freedom needs to be on the march at home, lest we awake from our five-year slumber to find that it has disappeared.

Recent polling indicates that most Americans oppose the war, just as they disclose that most Americans are pro-choice. Yet the vocal finger-pointing minority still insists that opposition to their chosen viewpoint is not only un-American, but un-Godly as well. While we cannot govern by consensus or poll results, it is well past the time when patriotic and loyal Americans, of all faiths, should rise in one voice to say to those zealots, those true believers, that this is OUR country, that our voices will not be drowned out by your malicious ridicule, and that you have no monopoly on virtue and good will.

If the Democrats cannot lead, then we need to unite behind a new standard bearer, whoever that may be. A standard bearer that advances the needs of the people and not the politicians. A standard bearer willing to put principle before expediency. The field is wide open ... who will seize the time?

Andrew Mancini
Pottstown, PA

A BUZZFLASH READER CONTRIBUTION