In response to Mr. Waqas Malik, I too came as a refugee in 1957 from the Netherlands, and in defense of my other country I must say that religion is tolerated. (“Muslims need to speak out against movie,” March 21) What is not being understood by other religious groups is that in the Netherlands, just like America, we have “freedom of speech.” In free societies, people are free to say and do what they like. Given, there are limits such as respect, honor and religion. Sometimes people who have a history and a culture that runs deep and long become resentful when all they have is an outlet for a voice. The Netherlands is overrun, but refugees and the people are losing their culture, their religion, their very identity. When speaking out brings about murder, as has been recently seen, you see rebellion. We all have to work, live and try to understand when a culture tries to “teach” an entire people there is a great divide. That is why we have freedom of expression, such as in this paper where one can share our beliefs. It is also the right of any citizen of the Netherlands to write, speak or make a movie about what they believe. Right or wrong, it is called freedom. It is also why America is so great. We all have the right to practice our religion and to be free. The people of the Netherlands do too, no matter if it is wrong. To understand our people, I would encourage Mr. Malik to watch a movie called “The Black Book.” Maybe he then will understand the will of these people to keep freedom alive. I have lived it, and I celebrate being free.
Anneke Bos
Shoreline
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