Christian clerics are fostering hate

On the other hand, in the name of freedom of speech, we have let loose televangelists like Pat Robertson who often makes anti-Islam remarks on his Christian Broadcasting Network 700 Club. Recently, he told his audience: "Islam is not a religion of peace," and "The goal of Islam, ladies and gentlemen, whether you like it or not, is world domination."

He also referred to some Muslims as being motivated by "demonic power." In the past, Robertson has repeatedly defamed Islam and Muslims.

Another commentator published a syndicated column stating that all Muslims should be considered "potential killers." Daniel Pipes wrote in The New York Sun newspaper that "normal-appearing Muslims" may become violent at any time, leading to the "legitimate consequence of casting suspicion on all Muslims."

I think the leaders of our country and all people of conscience should repudiate these remarks that translate into acts of bias, discrimination and even violence against Muslims. The constant, and largely unchallenged, drumbeat of anti-Muslim rhetoric is poisoning the public's attitude toward ordinary American Muslims. The Washington Post's report from a recent poll quoted experts who say negative attitudes about Islam are "fueled in part by political statements and media reports that focus almost solely on the actions of Muslim extremists."