This coming Thursday is one of my favorite holidays of the year, behind Christmas, Independence Day, and Talk Like a Pirate Day: Draw Mohammed Day.
The premise of this event is very simple: I am not a Muslim. I have absolutely no need, desire, or requirement to bow to the whims of the Koran or those who interpret it in a way that would ban me from drawing Mohammed. In fact, the use of Mohammed in art and imagery is well-documented, to the point where, throughout history, even Muslims drew his picture without any fear of reprisal from extremists.
The Religion of Peace
And yet today, people who aren’t under the thumb of the most oppressive major religion on earth are cowering before Islam. Interestingly, they have no fear of insulting Christians. This may have something to do with the fact that there haven’t been any reported terrorist incidents against artists who defame Christ, but those who have drawn or depicted Mohammed or have questioned the sincerity of the Religion of Peace have often found themselves at the end of a Koran-inspired goon squad, and in some cases have been attacked and killed.
This is ridiculous.
So, on May 20, a bunch of freedom-loving folks from around the world are gathering together for the first annual Draw Mohammed Day. I will be participating and will share my image here. I would encourage you to draw your own image, but…. a few thoughts:
First, try to be at least somewhat pleasant. While pictures of Mohammed eating a canned ham with his camel wife may have comedy value, that’s not really the point. This isn’t about comedy – it’s about freedom.
Second, be aware that some people will find this offensive – usually people who’re more concerned about insulting one group of people and are less concerned about insulting another group of people who are in direct opposition to the first group. What we need to realize and they need to learn is that it’s OK for them to be offended.
Finally, be creative. Seriously… Mohammed eating a canned ham? It’s been done.
See you on Thursday.
1jason1
The Annoyed Elephant
ncmike72
