Group's Islamophobia is un-American

The Daily Herald recently carried a story that identified ACT (Act For America) as a hate group, one that is engaged in Islamophobia. ACT's activities have also been identified as such by well-known and respected organizations and observers. These include not only the Southern Poverty Law Center, but also the Center for American Progress, the Anti-Defamation League, the Huffington Post, CAIR, National Christian Foundation and many others who have considered their activities.

ACT correctly reports many outrageous acts of Muslim militancy, and we all need to be on guard for those threats to our own safety and to world order. But their campaign goes too far and is too simplistic. Very often their pronouncements are broadly aimed at all Muslims and the Islamic faith in general. And they have issued statements that can only be understood as applying to all of Islam. That is what makes them a hate group.

Islamophobia is a trap that promotes hatred and defeats the ethical basis for our constitution. Instead of improving our safety, it increases our exposure to serious trouble. It is therefore un-American to support such teachings and actions.

Richard Cichanski

Palatine