60 Minutes
524 West 57th Street
New York, New York 10019
October 7, 2002
Dear Producers,
The airing of Sunday
October 6th's segment included an interview with Reverend
Jerry Falwell and his views on Islam and the Prophet Mohammad.
He describes the Prophet Mohammad as a “terrorist” and declares
that a line has been drawn between the right-wing Christian Coalitions
united with Jews against Muslims.
Reverend Jerry Falwell
chooses to use “divisive” rhetoric. He creates an “us” versus
“them” scenario that only undermines the efforts of interfaith groups
all across the nation who have been striving to unite after the tragic
events of September 11.
As Americans of
different faiths reach out to each other, it exposes the Reverend
Falwell’s philosophy, at odds with the rest of the nation.
He does a disservice to
his followers and to the American people at large.
He defames Prophet
Mohammad, a beloved messenger of God, according to Islam.
He resorts to Islam- bashing and “name” calling instead of
engaging in an intellectual discussion of differences.
The Muslim Women’s
League requests that the producers of 60 minutes offer a fair and balanced
view of the American religious milieu where unity and cooperation are the
current theme and trend among various faith organizations.
We urge you to air a
follow-up segment with an interfaith panel of Muslim, Jewish and Christian
leaders who are currently working together to promote the common good.
We would like to hear
from well- known Muslim speakers such as: Dr. John Esposito, Dr. Aziza Al-Hibri
and Dr. Maher Hathout. We
look forward to seeing the next airing of this follow-up segment.
Sincerely,
Lena Al-Sarraf, MWL President |
