TO THE EDITOR:
It has come to our attention that there has been criticism about an event held by the UNC Muslim Students Association on Nov. 20 called “Taboo Topics.” One of the points discussed during the event was homosexuality in Islam. A letter was written to the editor on Dec. 2 titled “No place to go for gay Muslim students” that implied that UNC MSA does not accept gay Muslims. First, we would like to state that any type of discrimination, has absolutely no place in Islam and is unacceptable within UNC MSA.
The letter also stated that the event was one-sided and that no discussion was held about the topic. If the individual were present, they would have known that the topics presented were discussed at great length the following day, and that MSA members hold a wide range of opinions. We would also like to mention that any speaker that we invite does not necessarily represent the opinions of every MSA member.
We understand that there are gay Muslims, and they are welcome to MSA along with all other Muslims. Again, their sexual orientation does not and should not have any effect on their right to be respected and treated with kindness. As the Prophet Muhammad, peace be upon him, said, “None of you truly believes until he loves for his brother what he loves for himself.”
UNC MSA Executive Board
