From Martin Peretz, editor-in-chief of The New Republic:
Muslim life is cheap, most notably to Muslims. And among those Muslims led by the Imam Rauf there is hardly one who has raised a fuss about the routine and random bloodshed that defines their brotherhood. So, yes, I wonder whether I need honor these people and pretend that they are worthy of the privileges of the First Amendment which I have in my gut the sense that they will abuse.
This is a revolting and frankly un-American sentiment. Fortunately though, and for as long as we are willing to work to preserve it, the Constitution protects all Americans equally – with or without the approval of Mr. Peretz. The First Amendment doesn't consult his gut, or respect his sense of honor above that of any other American, including those Muslim-American citizens he disparages with his remarks. Our laws protect the religious expression of Islamic Americans just as forcefully and purposefully as it respects and allows shameful comments like these. Why The New Republic respects and allows them in its pages is another question.
