Dear NPR, Thank You

I'm afraid of white men who are excessively drunk and rowdy. This is a ridiculous fear, because if I am going to be afraid of men who are excessively drunk and rowdy - race shouldn't factor in. I own this. I realize that there are several reasons why my fear is biased unfairly.

Juan Williams made a prejudiced statement similar to mine, on national television. However he did not express why and how his fear was unfounded, or how his fear (shared by millions of Americans) isolates Muslim-Americans. He announced his fear without discussing what it meant to him or American culture, and was completely lacking in sensitivity to Muslim-Americans. He slipped up. He said something he shouldn't have, but he said it.

Many people are now rushing to his aid, and calling foul on NPR. But, I'd say NPR protected its image as well as its viewers from an individual who lacked the common sense and tact to not alienate an entire religious/ethnic group of people. While Williams was being honest and did not intend to upset anyone, he obviously lacks the foresight necessary to be a popular news personality to a station that prides itself on being inclusive.

If Juan Williams had said that when he sees a black man walk into a bank he becomes nervous, there would be no question on whether he should be fired or whether that comment was completely inappropriate. If Williams had said that if Jews moved into his neighborhood he'd be uncomfortable, there would be no question that the comment was foul and unnecessary. But, in America's current climate, it has become okay to slight Muslims and to admit broad and sweeping prejudices against them. What is worse, is that many news stations are now backing Williams in his insensitivity. Therefore, making it acceptable for viewers to casually admit their own bigotry with a sense of impunity.

I can understand fearing terrorists - that is natural. However, insulting all Muslims goes beyond fear of terror. It shows a lack of intelligence.