A planned “Muslims only” event in Grand Prairie, Texas was abruptly canceled after Texas Governor Greg Abbott threatened to pull half a million dollars in grant money for the city if the event proceeded.
The event was going to take place at Epic Waters Indoor Waterpark, which is owned by Grand Prairie but operated by a private company. The planned event was a June 1 celebration of Eid, one of the holiest holidays in Islam.
The governor’s office alleges that the city was blatantly discriminating against non-Muslims with the event – and now the backlash is spreading far beyond the borders of this Texas community.
“Muslims Only” Backlash
A local Muslim group had rented out Epic Waters Indoor Waterpark in celebration of their third annual “DFW Epic Eid” event, which was initially advertised as a “Muslim only event” on fliers. That language was later changed to read “all are welcome!”, though the updated flier also added a note emphasizing “modest dress only,” with additional guidelines on swimwear for female attendees.
“In response to feedback, we have updated our materials to clearly reflect that this is a modest dress-only event, centered around a respectful and family-friendly environment,” wrote event organizer Dr. Aminah Knight on the group’s website. “So if you are a friend of a different faith who wants to celebrate the Eid holiday with us and adhere to the modest dress code…. this event is FOR YOU TOO!”
Though event organizers changed wording on advertisements, and the city emphasized that the water park is privately managed and is regularly rented out to a variety of groups, backlash spread like wildfire online. Conservative radio host Dana Loesch asked “How is a taxpayer-funded, city-owned entity allowed to discriminate against non-Muslims at a public water park?”
One commenter even asked, “Should we expect a ‘Christians Only’ day?”
It was enough to catch the eye of Texas Governor Greg Abbott - who threatened $530,000 in grant funds to the city if they didn’t shutter the event.
RELATED: Sharia Law Zone? Texas Resists Planned Islamic Community
Is This Religious Discrimination?
Following online backlash, the governor's office sent a letter to Grand Prairie Mayor Ron Jensen, accusing the city of endorsing religious discrimination.
“An event at a city-owned pool that was publicly and indiscriminately advertised as ‘Whites only’ would surely violate the Constitution,” reads the letter. “The same must be true here. Government may not use private organizations as a ‘subterfuge’ to ‘directly or indirectly’ foster illegal discrimination.”
The letter proceeded to threaten city funding to the tune of $530,000 if the event proceeded. Within a week, Grand Prairie canceled the event.
“Disappointed” is how organizer Dr. Aminah Knight described the cancellation, accusing agitators of using the event to sow “division and controversy”.
“What began as a private event for the Muslim community to celebrate Eid in a joyful and modest environment became something much bigger than I ever imagined,” she stated. “When people begin to see their neighbors as foreign or as though they do not belong, it weakens the fabric of our nation.”
What do you think? The city stated that groups – including religious groups – frequently rent out the water park. And event organizers changed the wording on the flyer following backlash. Is it still religious discrimination even if updated to welcome those of all faiths? Or is the initial ‘Muslims only’ invite enough to cancel the event entirely?
Is this a legitimate case of religious discrimination against non-Muslims, or targeted harassment of the Muslim community by Texas officials?
98 comments
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Cam Kirmser
The original notice was discriminatory. That they changed it after being told it violated the law is irrelevant - 20/20 hindsight is not a defense.
I fully support Gov. Abbott's decision.
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Ari Joseph Bertine
20/20 hindsight would be if they were still discriminating when the event was shut down. They were not. They made a mistake, they fixed it, and because people were looking for an excuse to shut it down, it was ignored that they changed it. Advertising for an event that has not yet taken place does not equal an illegal event, the event itself has to actually violate law. I'm not even sure that Abbot knew that it wasn't a Muslim-only event. It looks like he saw some social media posts and made an immediate decision based on his emotional response, something we love to have leaders do because it makes people so very safe.
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Miriam Gates
They are not discriminating at all. This group is pushing their narrative and agenda in your face! Especially when you applied for a huge grant and wow booked a public funded park like it’s a private park! Their dress rules toward women are their own business so they should have their own spot and not try to take over this place!
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Leslie A. Hulberg Née Tomasura
Hate and discrimination in the name of God? Really Texas? It’s a very sad day in the country that claims the right to practice their religion and that all men are created equal with equal treatment under the law. I wonder if a “Christian” holiday outing would be shutdown as well?
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Calvin F Pacheco
No Islam is a scourge to the United States. If you read the quran you would know why. Or go to a muslim country and see for yourself
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Joseph Saffomilla
Nobody shut down the holiday, so stop clutching your pearls. The Muslims were in violation of the First Amendment by making it a Muslim-only event. Remember you cannot exclude on the basis of religion, race, or sex. Had this just said "modest dress" or been at a non-taxpayer-paid venue, they would have been fine. Islam is a theocracy disguised as a religion, and their sharia law is not compatible with our constitution. The people who were hosting the event are also pushing for sharia law. How would you feel about that being in your community?
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J Orville Adams
This is clearly a 1st amendment violation, in violation of the "free exercise" clause. A Catholic or Christian or other church receives government financial support through their non-profit status. So, the logic by Abbot that since the city gets money which is used to help fund this water park is nonsense and won't stand up in court. If I was representing them, I would recommend that they go before a judge and get an injunction to block Abbot's efforts. They will be awarded the injunction, this is a clear first amendment violation. Then, to make sure that it never happens again, I would recommend that they sue the state for damages. Since this is religious discrimination, a civil rights violation, they can pray for punitive damages.
Additionally, Texans need to do everything they can to get this idiot out of Austin. It is one thing to be conservative, and many Texans are conservative, but, Abbot, Ted Cruz and many Texas republicans are right wing radicals that are destroying Texas values. The one thing I would hold all the idiots in Texas government is refusing a bill that would've put $200 level indicators with sirens up and down the river that overflowed. The total cost was less than $100,000. Their negligence cost over 100 Texas families the ability to watch their children grow up as they were swept away and drowned in a flood. Texas voters need to get rid of Abbot and the whole crooked bunch of Republicans that are embarrasing you and your state!
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Joseph Saffomilla
Lighten up, Francis. Yes, it is a First Amendment violation. But not on the part of Texas; it is the Muslims who are violating it, but by making it Muslim-only, they are discriminating against all other religions. If you were not blinded by your hatred, you would admit that.
However, based on your previous outlandish comments, I have no hope that you will wake up and see the truth. And so I will leave you in your ignorance. You are dismissed.
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Ari Joseph Bertine
*discriminated, not "are discriminating". They stopped.
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Miriam Gates
🤣
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Alexander Clarke
The ideal of America was freedom. I ideal was secular. Previous immigrants assimilated. We have degenerated into segregation into political, religious, sexual, and financial silos with each having their own news source. Now we search on line for those that preach to our own personal beliefs and agendas. America and the American Dream will die of a thousand cuts from the inside.
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Ari Joseph Bertine
It may already be dead, and just doesn't know it yet. I am afraid to give in to hope anymore because every time it looks like we have reached a limit of corruption we won't tolerate anymore, the line breaks. I remember the USA from my youth and compared to what it is now, it's heartbreaking. The cruelty that people accept as normal behavior is astonishing.
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Jonny Trotter
Someone spoke about how Japan treats Islam, here is the truth:
Freedom of Religion Article 20 of The Japan Constitution, (not word for word) ALL people are free to practice there religion
Private Practice of Religion, Muslims are allowed to Pray in the streets of Japan.
Japan does not disregard The Muslim Nation nor disallow entrance into their country. That is untruths.
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Jonny Trotter
Religious or Secular, a right of privacy stand, are we allowed in Masonic Temple or Scottish Rite, am I excluded from Meta board meetings, can I just walk on to the White house. The answer is no. Do for the Muslims to have Muslims only, why get all bent out of shape, why must the people of this world want to cause havoc Just because a certain group wants their event to stay within their circle. Though they may lose a lot of income, they have already figured that into their decision, this was their faith based decision and why does the states still want to fight religion or religious decision. Can you walk into a Daughters of the American Revolution if not invited, NO YOU CANT. How about this......can you come to a Company Picnic if you dont work their. Quaker Oats Company did not allow it, only the workers family. It was not for all. So give it a break, I am truly disgusted on how people are today. Clean your own yard first leave you neighbors yard for your neighbor. Most Reverend JB Trotter
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J Orville Adams
Did you read the letter? It says they want to rent a water park to hold their event! And, yes you can go in any church you want, a Masonic Temple, hell you can even go into a Islam Mosque. Your company picknick is a good analogy. Say you work for an Indian restaurant and you go to reserve a spot for your annual company picknick. Should the state be able to block your reservation because you are Indian? Black? Say you are a woman's group and you want to reserve a park, AND PAY FOR IT, should the state be able to block you? NO! THE SIMPLE ANSWER IS NO!
The park this group wants to PAY TO RESERVE is a public park and can be reserved by groups. It is being blocked solely because they are Muslim. This is illegal. They have even offered to open it up for all, which as you point out they don't have to, but were still denied...merely because they are MUSLIM!
As for Muslim being a false religion that is just pure trash. There is the establishment clause in the first amendment that states:
"Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion”
This applies to ALL religions. The courts have defined religion as:
Any gathering that focuses on "one's views of his relations to his Creator, and the obligations they impose of reverence for his being and character, and of obedience to his will"
Thus Islam is a religion and Merle simply needs to learn how to read and quit being Xenophobic!
Texas as a state needs to clean up the mess they've created and get rid of Abbot, Cruz and the other far-right whackos that you've elected. Your state is crashing, especially the housing market, because people like this are driving normal people out of your state!
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Merle A Clark
Muslim is a false religion based upon a false prophet and has no place in the US
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Jonny Trotter
Show me that. It is a false religion, based on a false prophet. I thought America had freedom of religion or is that only if you accept that religion. Sound like a hypocrites words to me.
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Miriam Gates
It is a religion, lifestyle, political all rolled into 1. It dictatorial to its members, citizens and agenda. They announce it, they demand and take! There are extremes yes but go to the core of what they believe.
No religions are without beliefs that others claim discrimination but none push it in your face the way this group does! The public call to prayer is a huge display of the in your face agenda!
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Ari Joseph Bertine
I have lived in three places in the USA over my nearly 60 years of life, and while I have been subject to public Christian prayer at countless public events including my own high school graduation, I have never once had a Muslim preach at me, pray at me, insult me for not wanting to go to their church, or treat me with less fairness than anyone else for being of a different faith. I have, however, had a good double handful of Christians do so. Now state governments are forcing Christianity on the public in schools, and getting teachers fired if they do not agree with that. Islam is not nearly as bossy in the US as Christianity.
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Steven Ferrell
Why can there be discrimination against Christians and yet kiss the butt of muslims? This is totally wrong. It was the right choice to cancel that day and open to all.
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Joseph Grieco
Texas, where if you are the correct flavor of Christianity, you can do as you please. Personally, I'm surprised their state legislature hasn't tried ordering the Roman Catholic Church to serve Communion to Baptists, or face losing their tax exempt status!
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ServantOfJudgement
Wrong. A Christian can not honor kill.
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James Dutton
I'm more disturbed that laws like HB 4211 are being passed to try and legitimize closeing down events like this.
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Roy S. Thorpe
The losers here are the true believers in God no matter what the faith! Its the phonies who profess any faith that make a mockery of God's laws with their half-baked ideas and beliefs! They are getting their tickets for that downbound train!
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Shawn Peter Flanagan
The U.S.A. was founded on the right to freedom of speech, and the freedom of religion. As the Mayflower left Europe because of persecution; why then do we now persecute others. Turkey caused a genocide, Hitler caused a genocide, England also caused many genocide. We as leaders of the faith must come together and say we are all GOD'S children. Enough is enough let us stop the hate ,name calling ,and stop telling each other that thier religion is wrong. GOD IS THE ONLY JUDEG, and I will let him stay that way. Please stand with me and stand up for each other; there are other things to worry about. AMEN.
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ServantOfJudgement
You defend the executioner of Christians globally.
Are children of Satan children of God?
Shall we allow Nazi to create neighborhoods?
What if a religion existed that declared they must kill all gay people? Is that religion ok to thrive in usa?
If you're a Christian, search in your heart if one can be a wilful murderer and be a child of God simultaneously. Search the bible if you don't know.
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Ari Joseph Bertine
The New Independent Fundamentalist Baptist church organization of Baptist (Christian) churches has declared that they should kill all gay and trans people, and actively campaigns to try to get this recognized by the US government.
Meanwhile, in Uganda, Christian churches (Evangelical and Pentecostal) have pushed legislation into place to punish homosexuality with either a life sentence or the death penalty. While the charge demanding the death penalty, "aggravated homosexuality" is often thought to be reserved for rape, it is not, and anyone convicted of the lesser charge of homosexuality twice is subject to the death penalty.
And let's not forget the Bosnian Genocide, with the Orthodox Christian Serbs killing 8,000 Muslim men and children for being Muslim.
No one religion holds a monopoly of murderers. Christians have killed hundreds of thousands of people for their religions, Islam has killed hundreds of thousands of people for their religions, the Hebrews killed their pagan neighbors left and right, the Vikings killed people to take their stuff both before and after they were converted to Christianity. Humans kill each other at the drop of a hat, and religion is a favorite excuse for it on every side. Even atheists kill people for being religious under certain circumstances. No one religion is a religion of murderers, even if some denominations of that religion are prominent and highly populated. No one religion is innocent even if some of its denominations are peaceful and anti-violence. We see overarching religions break into a myriad of cults over differences both large (like killing people) or small (like arguing over the meaning of a passage of scripture), but we still call all of the denominations of that religion by the religion's name. So it's senseless to call one religion a faith of murderers and another it has clashed with for hundreds of years gets a free pass.
Maybe if we focused on dealing with the people who are murderers, and left their religion out of it, we might get somewhere. There is no predicting or ruling anyone out due to religion based on history. It's time to stop treating it like any sort of behavior qualifier.
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Alexander Clarke
Religion is proof that there is no limit to human stupidity.
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Rev. Kev
This is obviously my opinion, so am not claiming to speak from any sort of authority nor expect others to necessarily agree with me.....but.....
I have the suspicion that this was only a problem because it was Muslims. I'm betting there would have been no uproar if it had been advertised as a "Christian only" event in order to ensure a "Godly" and "family friendly" environment. It would magically be totally Constitutional and not at all discriminatory.
It's a water park that has a history of renting out its facilities to individual groups. Seems like no illegal activities will be involved. So I don't see a problem.
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Alexander Clarke
Or a Republican event.
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Shawn Peter Flanagan
As a man of God, I say that if the park rents to privet entities as it says then why pursicute anyone that rents it . If that's the case then the park needs to stop renting itself out and advertise public park no privet events
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Joseph Saffomilla
The other events do not exclude people on the basis of religion. If they did they would be subject to the same treatment.
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Carla Jakola Smith
As a the former National Vice President, National Treasurer, Southeastern Regional Coordinator and co-founding member of the Piedmont (Charlotte Metro) Pagan Pride Day yearly event from 2002-2017; as a native of North Carolina; as a Pagan Witch, Priestess and Reverend I can testify to this:
The Muslim community should have done 1 of 2 things - held a completely private, invitation only event with pre registration
OR a public event WITH restrictions on clothing for the water park.
Never advertise PUBLICLY a “only whichever specific group” event…..duh
Our Pagan Pride Day events and the Pagan Pride Day National 501c3 organization assisted with mentors and others local coordinators to host a yearly public invited open event to celebrate the Harvest Season. Entrance fee was a suggested donation of non perishable food item for a local food bank or food for a local animal shelter or rescue with both of the receiving organizations being nonprofits. We had vendors, workshops, exhibitions, public Pagan rituals, voter registration, blood drives, children’s activities, etc. in a PUBLIC LOCATION city park, county parks, college campuses (Appalachian State University Boone NC), UU churches, etc.
Our intent was educational and informational and showed the general community that Pagans were not all green wearing pointy hats. We had off duty hired uniformed police officers for security. We had Christian protesters. We have had our food donations refused because they thought we cursed the food!
So hindsight is 20/20. Some greater forethought would have been well worth the time spent.
I won’t comment on GOP politicians as I have absolutely NO respect for the Party of Trump.
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Jeffery D. Sanders
Honest question here... I mean no disrespect. Why do you suppose we never see a straight "pride" day? I have often wondered why some groups seem to have a need to be recognized, separating themselves from others. It feels like a cry for value to me? (only from MY perspective) Personally, I believe ALL people have extreme value and I would guess we could probably agree that some beliefs are very... toxic.
Be well Carla!
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Michael Hunt
The reason we don't have a straight pride day is because being straight in our society was never looked down upon nor would people discriminate against straight couples or attack them for holding their partner's hand. We have a gay pride celebration because the LGBTQ+ community once had to hide who they were and who they loved for fear of legal persecution or hate based violence directed toward them. Queer people were previously made to feel shame for who they felt attracted to (and in many places they still are) but now that our society is more accepting, the community is celebrating their freedom to be proud that they are the person that they are.
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Ari Joseph Bertine
To add to what Michael explained...did you know that there's an International Left-Handers Day? This is celebrated worldwide on August 13th. It was launched in 1976 by Dean R. Campbell, who founded Lefthanders International, Inc. It was designed to promote awareness of the obstacles faced by left-handed people (scissors, tools, etc.), and to help uplift left-handed people in a celebration of pride and acceptance, because in the past left-handers had been stigmatized, misunderstood, and put through conversion therapy. On International Left-Handers Day there are public events, social media campaigns, and public gatherings. They didn't name this Leftie Pride, but that's exactly what it is. And we don't see Right-Hander Pride events, because...well...we don't need it, we have pretty much all grown up okay and unmolested due to being right-handed. Does that make sense?
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Benjamin Todd Breece
I believe the real test is whether or not local churches or other religious organizations are able to rent out the water park for special events just for their congregations. The "Muslims only" verbiage is not good, but it was changed when the issue was raised. That being said, I don't know the normal rules for when groups rent out this particular water park, but it is not unusual for groups to be able to rent out public facilities for private events. If other groups can rent out this water park for private events, then Muslims should also be able to.
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Joseph Saffomilla
They changed the verbiage when they were caught; this would have been the third year for this event. If a church group had rented the park and said only members of their religion were allowed, it would 100% be illegal. Our Constitution forbids discrimination based on race, religion, or sex. These are the same people who want Sharia law here, you know, where honor killings, beating your wife, and tossing gays off of roofs is allowed.
Maybe look up some of the interviews with the organizer of this event on Blaze Media and see for yourself how sketchy this group is. They have since scrubbed their website and been caught running a daycare with no license, also a "travel agency." These are not honest or good people. Do your homework before jumping in and trying to earn some more social justice warrior points.
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J Orville Adams
Why do you say such nonsense Joseph? Muslims worship the same God as all western religions. Your state is trying to get the 10 commandments posted in schools. And, your law, according to the 14th amendment is the same law as applied across the nation. There can be no discrimination based on religion! If you remember, the Pilgrims came to the US because they were persecuted in England and not allowed to practice Christianity (Lutheran, Quaker, other), other than Catholicism! So, now you are saying that what the framers fought for was wrong. There should be no freedom of religion in the US, or at least Texas? You should be ashamed of yourself!
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Joseph Saffomilla
Dang, J. Orville, how did you get so confused? Exactly what is my state? The pilgrims were looking for religious freedom, but it was not from Catholicism; it was from the Church of England. Just from that alone I can discard anything else you say, based on you having already shown a lack of knowledge on the subject.
Have a nice day!
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Miriam Gates
There is plenty of freedom of religion. They applied for a huge grant and it’s a public park….this dictates their choice.
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ServantOfJudgement
Orville,
The belief of hose not in the know is that Jewish, Christians and Muslims all worship the same god. In general it's through pure ignorance.
God has a son. Allah does not. God forbids lying. Allah does not. God has given us grace over law. Allah demands law over grace. God does not want his children killing people. Allah demands it. God said jesus is the way. Allah says all Christians go to hell. God and Allah are in opposition to one another.
These two entities are not the same as we can plainly see.
Islam murders people by the millions. Today and tomorrow, Islam will murder as instructed by Sharia law.
I'm sorry that the religion of Islam is violent and bloody by doctrine. I wish they wouldn't have blown up the trade centers and decapitate unbelievers. I feel bad for the Christians in Sudan, Nigeria, Burkina Faso, Mali, Niger, Mozambique, Somalia and the Democratic Republic of Congo who are getting chopped up and having their churches and villages burned.
Do you think they should be able to practice their religion here in USA?
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Michael Hunt
I'd take anything posted by The Blaze with a grain of salt. They're a far-right publication with a less than stellar reputation for factual reporting.
https://mediabiasfactcheck.com/the-blaze/
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ServantOfJudgement
Mediabiasfactcheck.com is left leaning.
Did you know lefties don't trust right leaning media and righties don't trust left leaning media? Yep, they'll both find ways to prove the media of the opposition is false. Both will discredit facts without even contemplating it.
I'd site my source but you won't believe it. That's funny for some reason. People desperately want to stay where they are. And they do.
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Miriam Gates
I think it’s the huge grant and upon investigation by the state the under tones of this group have caused this.
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obere mchugh
If christians can have a public event or a christian only type event held on public land or place. then anyone can, while yes the group in question wouldnt be able to keep out the general public from public accessable places only those that fall under the rental agreement, i have no problem with it, i can only imagine people have an issue with and god's forbid an issue only being with being modest within the cultural and socio-cultural context within the islamic world view, do people have such issues say if a mormon group or any christian conservative group would ask? realy i dont care what they do if it would show compassion and education to the masses who would attend go for it.
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Dr. Ronald J. Tuman
Just look at what has happened to Europe with its Muslim tolerance and the loss of its countries' culture. What would make us think that they wouldn't do the same in America? It's not hate for Muslims; it is just our desire to maintain our own culture. There are many examples of this all over the world as they move into a Western country, bringing their violent and disruptive battling between the Sunnis and Shia.
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Rev. Kev
Dr. Tuman:
You wrote, "...it is just our desire to maintain our own culture."
I am sincerely curious. How do you define "our own culture" exactly? What does that look like in real life?
I am currently under the impression that the U.S. is a multicultural melting pot of different peoples from different nations with different customs, languages, backgrounds, and religious beliefs. A nation that learns and grows through inclusivity. One that has benefited greatly from outside influences. The unifying factor being rule of law, and equality under the law regardless of national origin, gender, or religious affiliations.
The U.S. is a nation of immigrants. We have never had a single, homogenous "culture" outside of the legal frameworks created by the Founding Fathers. As the Republic expanded its borders, we includes the peoples from, or influenced by, the Spanish, French, British, Portuguese, and others. All of whom settled territories in this continent. Not to mention our bringing in black slaves and Chinese laborers to add to the mix.
Even the Founding Fathers brought in the outside influences already a part of British daily life from places like India and China and the Middle East.
TBH I wonder what America is best known for in 2026 other than a rather questionable adoration of guns and fast food? Is our culture really more than gun statistics, unwarranted self-interest, KFC, Burger King, McDonald's, and Starbucks (signs seen on the streets in other countries)?
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Douglas Alan Wynn
Your comment is right on target.
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Merlin
Most belief systems are discriminatory. It’s a “club” with authoritarian rule. Their way or the highway.
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Mrknowitall
Islam...Evil to the world...Satan's word in the mind of millions
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Tami Tabone
I feel like the group was willing to work with those who opposed it and they changed it to what they really wanted, was for attendees to honor their religious beliefs. So I think it was fair enough. If they rented it for their Muslim group, attendees should adhere to that,dress modestly for the day. Just like if a wedding group rented and wanted everyone to wear white, or whatever. I do agree the "Muslims Only" was not what America is about, but they were willing to negotiate an acceptable solution, and that says alot. Respect of ALL religions is important.
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Joseph Saffomilla
There is a lot more to it. Sara Gonzoles broke this story and had the organizer on her show. This is a very corrupt group, and there is a lot more going on. Maybe look up the video and watch it; see for yourself. Lots of scamming going on, including their own learning center.
The "religion of peace" is not so peaceful or honest.
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John Alex Paxson
In America, the First Amendment guarantees both freedom of religion and freedom from religion, allowing individuals to practice their faith or choose not to follow any religion at all. This dual protection supports the right to express religious beliefs while also ensuring that individuals are not compelled to participate in religious practices.
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Alexander J. Carter
Agreed, and with the fact that this was a PRIVATE party, anyone who did not wish to comply with the PRIVATE PARTY organizers requests, could chose not to go. It's a simple choice that does not require excess.
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Paea I Fulton Taufatofua
Everyone is free to express their opinion, but your opinion is not the law, for every opinion is freely expressed within the boundary of the law of the land you live in. Islam is a political movement masquerading as a religion, and it is horse-riding as a religious death cult on the liberty of the western democratic nations. They thrive on the ground of our Christian western loving and respectful welcoming culture. They are taking advantage of the liberty democracy provides, and hospitality Christianity generously offer. They will use every means to cultivate the doctrines of their death cult until they have the numbers, and the influence to establish themselves and destroy the civilization that raised them. We must treat them as such, while on the meantime we pray that God will be merciful and save them through the Christian love we share with them.
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ServantOfJudgement
We allow men into woman only sports, fitness clubs, women focused workforce groups, women's bathrooms, women's only activity clubs. We want anti Christians in Christian schools. We want anti Christian cakes baked by christians. We want anti Christians in virtually all of Christianity.
We want only Muslims in Muslim only events where you'll find Zero lgbt2qia++ anything.
May I say very kindly, I don't think very many people have had very much to think.
There is a reason for the glitchy logic.
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Nicholas J Page
Discrimination time again. The event should have stated all religions welcome 🙏
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Therese M. Boehlert
Imagine saying whites only or blacks only. I thought the Muslims were loving and accepting people? Why not had a community EID to let others see how it is done and maybe be more accepting?
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Rev. BH
Nicholas J Page, nice thought if you have an airplane hangar, 1000's of tables and caterers to accommodate all comers.
If I throw a party for my friends and family, am I obligated to open it up to everyone in the neighborhood? Am I discriminating if I don't?
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Rev. BH
"One commenter even asked, “Should we expect a ‘Christians Only’ day?” In Texas, probably.
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Danny D. Maynard
The purpose of religion is to divide. Abbott has done that with his.
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Sir Lionheart
Yes, many religions believe in the same mythical deity, and some believe in a totally different mythical deity. And that’s okay, whatever floats your boat, However, I see Islam as a Trojan Horse disguised as a religion, but I’m convinced that if they ever became the majority in any country they would definitely not allow any other faith to exist, and anyone that didn’t submit to their mythical deity would do a Dalek and cry out “Exterminate, Exterminate”, so be careful what you want to allow to flourish in the name of goodness. It might look good now, but in a few years time the picture could become quite horrific. Don’t forget that in some European countries some Islamic immigrants have already started demolishing Christmas Manger scenes, and pulling down Christmas trees, or setting them on fire, in town centers at Christmas time. A true harbinger of times to come.
So, be careful what you wish for.
🦁❤️
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Patricia Ann Gross
So how is that any different than cancelling (by extortion, mind you) an event celebrating a Muslim holiday?
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Sir Lionheart
It’s different because most religions associated with christendom and other man-made religions are basically classed as “religions”, and it’s OK if you don’t want to believe their doctrine. Whereas Islam classes itself more than a “religion” with its destructive ideology of insisting everyone should believe as they do, and if you don’t, you are classed as a heretic and will be put to death if they had the chance to do that, which actually happens in some communities where they dominate with Sharia Law.
There are now some heavily Islamic populated areas in Europe where they are now trying to install Sharia Law. That could happen in the United States, where Sharia Law would rule over the Constitution if they could do it. They don’t have the strength in numbers yet, but give it a few generations and you might be seeing a totally different United States, and definitely a different Europe.
🦁❤️
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Ari Joseph Bertine
By that description, United States Christianity is also not a religion, since we now have religious laws being passed all over the country, threatening or harming people who don't believe as the lawmakers do.
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Douglas Robert Spindler
This is all about Christian hatred and intolerance of people who are not white.
Remember Muslims, like Jews, Christians and Mormons all believe in the same God.
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ServantOfJudgement
No I don't remember that Douglas. I know people who love to hate Christians want that to be so very true. Also those who can't comprehend the three religions say that only because of ignorance.
Did you know I used to work with a Douglas. I can say with tremendous confidence you and he are not the same person. Your personalities are very different.
God has a son. Allah does not. God forbids lying. Allah does not. God has given us grace over law. Allah demands law over grace. God does not want his children killing people. Allah demands it. God said jesus is the way. Allah says all Christians go to hell.
We can see now that the person is not the same. No, we're talking about two different people.
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Lady Mutt Cat
You’re right. Islam is much more like Judaism than Christianity.
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Lester
Your God is perfect fine with lying and killing.
Exodus 3:18 "And they will listen to your voice, and you and the elders of Israel shall go to the king of Egypt and say to him, ‘The Lord, the God of the Hebrews, has met with us; and now, please let us go a three days' journey into the wilderness, that we may sacrifice to the Lord our God.’"
1 Samuel 15:2–3 "Thus says the Lord of hosts, ‘I have noted what Amalek did to Israel in opposing them on the way when they came up out of Egypt. Now go and strike Amalek and devote to destruction all that they have. Do not spare them, but kill both man and woman, child and infant, ox and sheep, camel and donkey.’"
- The Conquest of Canaanite Cities
Deuteronomy 20:16–17 "But in the cities of these peoples that the Lord your God is giving you for an inheritance, you shall save alive nothing that breathes, but you shall devote them to complete destruction, the Hittites and the Amorites, the Canaanites and the Perizzites, the Hivites and the Jebusites, as the Lord your God has commanded you."
Numbers 31:17 "Now therefore, kill every male among the little ones, and kill every woman who has known man by lying with him." . Exodus 32:27 (The Golden Calf incident) "And he said to them, 'Thus says the Lord God of Israel, "Put your sword on your side each of you, and go to and fro from gate to gate throughout the camp, and each of you kill his brother and his companion and his neighbor."'"
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ServantOfJudgement
Lester,
Should God have let Egypt keep the Israelites as slaves? How merciful of God to give them so many chances to let the slaves free.
God isn't fine with baby sacrifice. God's dealings with Israel and the pagans who sacrificed humans are his to choose. When you watch movies with scary wicked and evil villains get destroyed by the good guy, you're watching a recreation of God putting evil down. That should make you happy unless you consider how many babies we sacrifice. Id buckle up if I were you.
You didn't mention what those in the land of Canaan were up to that caused God to wipe them out. You just did an AI search for anything in the Bible that involved God's flawless justice. You don't really know what you've read beyond the shapes of the letters. No doubt eagerly scanning your cherry picked ai snippet.
That said you've left out your bible verse where God says it's ok to lie.
If you'd like to understand the person of God, start in Genesis and pray for understanding.
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Ari Joseph Bertine
God has given us grace over law? Then why harp on the misdemeanor of illegal immigration while ignoring Jesus's command to trear forwigners kindly? Or is it "God gives us an excuse to ignore law when we feel like it, unless it helps us to push a point we are really into"?
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Jay Gibs
What color is Islam? It’s always the ignorant left that are the actual racist bigots. Has been since the dawn of time.
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Michael Hunt
I mean it was the left who passed the Civil Rights Act and it's the right who denies the existence of racism in America unless they perceive that it's White people who are being discriminated against just because people of color are being given the same opportunities.
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ServantOfJudgement
Michael,
A higher percentage of Republicans voted yes than Democrats. Roughly 66 percent Dems said yes while 82 percent Republicans voted yes. Almost half of Democrats voted no. Republicans by percentage have always desired equal rights.
I know it's painful to be part of a political party that's always discriminated against black Americans. You can look up the voting records if you'd like.
The good news is now you know what you've said is false.
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Rev. Miche'al Yosef Dixon
I looked up the act law/ordnance at issue; Holding private events in public areas—such as parks, beaches, or plazas—is generally allowed but strictly regulated through local ordinances, requiring permits, fees, and adherence to safety guidelines to ensure the space remains available for public use. While public spaces are open to all, hosting a private, exclusive, or large-scale gathering usually transforms the usage from "general" to "special," requiring authorization from municipal parks and recreation departments or local law enforcement. Key Legal Requirements and Regulations Permit Necessity: Most jurisdictions require a "special event permit" for exclusive use of public property, especially for large groups (often over 50 people), amplified sound, and/or alcohol. Application Timelines: Permit applications need to be submitted minimum 30 days to maximum 120 days in advance, depending on the anticipated attendance and event complexity. Permitted Activities vs. Prohibited Actions: While simple picnics may not require permits, events involving structures (tents over 200 sq.ft.), vendors, sound systems and/or vehicle access do. NO ABSOLUTE EXCLUSION: Even with a permit, private events in public spaces often cannot completely exclude the general public from passing through the area, although they may limit access to specific amenities like a rented pavilion. Fundraising and Fees: Private groups are generally prohibited from charging entrance fees to the public for access to public park property, although voluntary donations may sometimes be allowed.
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Colleen McAllister
Although the event seems discriminatory on the surface, it is no more so than all-male or all-female events are. It seems to me that this is simply a way to assure that all attendees will feel comfortable.
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Reverend Paula Copp
“Christian nationalism” is an oxymoron. Our nation was founded on FREEDOM OF RELIGION, not Christianity! Texas is a major hub of “Christian nationalism”, which makes it easy for them to bristle at anything not WASP (White, Anglo-Saxon Protestant). Is it fair? No. Is it reality? Unfortunately, yes. What a shame!
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Jay Gibs
Just because you speak a lot does not mean you’re intelligent or correct. Perhaps you should try reading more.
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Reverend Paula Copp
Bless your heart… you know nothing about me or my education. May you be judged exactly how you judge others.
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Rev. Miche'al Yosef Dixon
The problem with people is there are 243 different types of "Muslims" and hypocrite so-called "Christians" with 265,143 different sects of "Christianity" arf lumping all Muslims in one pot while they can't get along with each other. Pentecost and Catholic should burn even the other Christians at the stake as demonic and each other. This is a prime example of politics using religious bigotry to play Adolf Hitler (who was a Jew hating Jews and doing the Catholic Church's bidding to executed non-Catholics) he'll be opening the showers next. If this is a public owned water park then same public area laws apply. If a Family or group "rented" the facility for a private event regardless of what that event is the same rules apply across the board. There was $65 ticket on the flyer meaning you pay to attend. According to the psychopaths that blow up public places those Muslims would be equal targets as enemies of Allah. However, Allah was specific in punishment and blowing people up is not it, cut off a hand from one side and one foot from the other side according to Quran. So, the psychopaths don't follow their own sharia law. And if women are in a public owned place half naked that's a violation of sharia law. Making it obvious that they are closed minded bigot a-holes making a political election to keep stealing the people's money and lands and has nothing to do with actual religion issues.
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Dorothy Hawkins
Is there something preventing another group from having a "group members only" event there? If not, this is a "tempest in a teapot". Does Grand Prairie have other owned interests that might come upon a similar conflict? I have more questions than answers, and I agree with Lillian Sanchez' observations regarding the differences seen between Muslim and Christian groups.
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Michael Arthur Lueras
To say "Muslims Only" concerning a public event is legitimate and proper because "...all of those who are in The Heavens and on Earth will Submit to The Perfect Will of Allah Willingly or Unwillingly..." (Quran 8:83) and remember that Jesus said: "...every knee will Bow..." (Philippians 2:10) To draw an equivalence between a "Muslim Only" event and a "Whites Only" event is the Epitome of Idiocy. To draw an equivalence between Submission to The Perfect Will of God (which ALL will Proffer Willingly or Unwillingly) and Racism is evidence of MADNESS on the part of Greg Abbott or something more sinister. Texas Governor Greg Abbott with his words and deeds regarding this "Muslims Only" event has insulted Allah and disparaged The Holy Name of Jesus. Greg Abbott is therefore Satan Incarnate as is his Big Daddy In The White House Donald Trump. Amen?
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ServantOfJudgement
You've gone and snipped out the meat and potatoes of your bible verse Michael.
“That at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of things in heaven, and things in earth, and things under the earth;”
You have to be careful mixing both religions that way and especially altering what the Bible says.
As written, the Holy Bible and Quran both call each other false doctrine. Either both are lies or one is a lie.
Did you know God forbids lying whereas Allah permits lying? I thought that was interesting.
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Lillian Sanchez
I am a Christian, and I'll be the first to say I am sick and tired of our behavior towards others. I am ashamed of the way we disrespect other religions and cultures. We are not called to fight any battles that aren't ours yet we gleefully throw in our opinions and roadblocks where they are not wanted.
The people of Texas would be better served under the leadership of someone who doesn't wear their faux Christianity like a blanket that gets tossed on or off according to the temperature. Really, Texas, do better. And just to let you know, a Muslim will feed someone no questions asked, as a Christian shakes the moths out of his donation wallet and asks a lifetime of questions as to why can't you feed yourself.
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Elizabeth Jane Erbe Wilcox
Thank you for the kind of response that a genuine Christian would be expected to offer. Sadly the christian nationalists are doing their best, as warned in Project 2025, to divide our country.
This is no different from when Oracle Corporation rented out Universal Orlando for an employees only event.
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Rev Ned
You spelled Christofascist wrong.
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ServantOfJudgement
A new Christian had his hands chopped off by his brothers the other day for leaving Islam. I think uganda. The handless Christian's father said it was the right thing to do.
Lillian, are you able to figure out why the Muslim father said cutting his christian sons hands off was correct?
In all honesty, you should read up a little bit to figure that out. You have to be careful though, there is tremendous gore involved with how Islam handles Christians. The imagery is prone to literally make one skip a few heartbeats. Odds are you'll feel somewhat faint and need to lay down for a little while.
The good news is if you can pull it off, you'll see just how ridiculous what you said it.
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Religion as a Weapon is Wrong
There are examples of people of one color killing people of another color or people of one sex hurting people of the opposite sex and people of one religion killing people of another religion. Constantly. With 8 billion people in the world we can pick and choose terrible cruelty and violence and attribute it to any one group. Let's talk about the inquisition (Spanish, Roman, Portuguese.)
Anonymous accusations were allowed. Inquisitors acted as investigator, prosecutor, and judge—a system rooted in Roman law. Confessions were heavily emphasized; torture could be used to obtain them. Punishments ranged from- Wearing penitential clothing (remorse) Pilgrimages Imprisonment Confiscation of property Execution (usually by secular authorities in a public square)
Our evolution (humankind) is severely stunted. What you claim happened in Uganda, what Musk claims happened in South Africa, and our understanding of other cultures and religions is lacking in depth, scope and full facts. Your posts are contrary to the rest of us, perhaps for your personal enjoyment or perhaps because you see things through a single lens. I really don't know and I don't think I care. Is there anybody that you DO like would be my only questions.
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Lady Mutt Cat
And yet Christians slaughtered thousands during the Crusades and Jews spit on Christians in Jerusalem. None of the Abrahamic faiths has clean hands.All three are based on exclusivity and supremacy.
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Douglas Alan Wynn
In May 2026, a 40-year-old Christian convert named Kalegeya Faruku had his hands chopped off by relatives in eastern Uganda following his conversion from Islam. The attack occurred in Jinja on April 17, 2026, when family members ambushed him, citing Sharia law to punish him for abandoning their faith. He is currently recovering from his injuries.
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Rev. Miche'al Yosef Dixon
Interesting 🤔 my brother and I were just having a conversation on that subject. My response to the link he sent me; Interesting 🤔. Carrie Underwood got booed from "American Idol" fans for doing her job as a judge and she used the "G" word... God. Well, it is called the "American Idol" key word "Idol" violation of the second Commandment. Oh, and the man getting hand copped off is interesting 🤔 also. I'll have to look what up I don't recall that in the Quran.I found the Quran refers to the punishment of cutting off hands in only two primary contexts: Theft (Sariqa): Surah Al-Ma'idah (5:38) states, "As for male and female thieves, cut off their hands for what they have done as a deterrent from Allah". Traditional interpretations often define this as physical amputation, while some modern scholars argue the Arabic term "iqta'u" can also mean "to cut" or "to restrain". Waging War/Corruption (Hiraba): Surah Al-Ma'idah (5:33) lists punishments for those who "wage war against Allah and His Messenger" and spread "mischief in the land." One of five specified punishments is the ("iqta'u" can also mean "to cut" or "to restrain") cutting off of hands and feet from opposite sides of the body. Therefore even if it did mean literally cut off they cut off both the man's hands not one hand one foot. They violated their own sharia law. Just as you can't judge a Catholic by What the Pentecost or LDS belief and actions and does you can't judge the Shite by Sunni or Al'Kida believe and actions. Although I believe the organization of Roman Catholic Church is Satan in disguise; I've met Nuns that live the belief more the the Priest that "only a man can preach" don't follow. I've found in Iraq side by side with Iraqi men that are "Muslims" but don't agree with the psychopaths that would kill everyone that don't agree with them.
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Rev. Mike Eggleston
Present your evidence - if you actually have any.
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Patricia Ann Gross
SOJ,
Would you condone plucking out your child's eye if you caught him reading the Quran, because it says in Matthew 5:29, "If your right eye causes you to sin, tear it out and throw it away; it is better for you to lose one of your members than for your whole body to be thrown into hell." I know this is a cherry-picked and out-of-context verse, but there are those that would. In this country, it would put you in jail for child abuse, as would cutting off the child's hand if the parents were Muslim and the child converted to Christianity. Your example is as far out of context as I was. The US laws do not tolerate this type of behavior.
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Jay Gibs
You’re a poorly educated Christian. Islam is not a religion, it is an entire theocracy. They have rules that they must put above our American Constitution. They have no place in our government at any level, and they have no place in our country. Japan has the right idea on how to treat Islam
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Douglas Robert Spindler
Why do you remain a member of an organization which spreads hate and intolerance?
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Patricia Ann Gross
Douglas,
Speaking for myself only, as I don't know Lillian, Elizabeth, or Rev Ned personally, being a Christian is about being a follower of Christ. Some people have bastardized the religion so badly that it resembles nothing of the message of Jesus. Lillian, Elizabeth, and Rev Ned (I presume) and I are trying to get across, that folks like Gov Abbott among others, do not speak for all Christians. Christianity is a religion, not an organization, and just like Islam, there can be some bad actors who make all those faithful to their beliefs look like something we are not. If all Christians and all churches acted that way, I know I would have left years ago. There have been times I have been tempted, even now, but the best way to make change is from the inside, not the outside (as one brave soul in seminary taught me). If we left, Christianity would lose one (or four) solid believer(s), and those that defame it would win. The message Christ left for us deserves better than that.
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The event was not Muslims-only, so the governor had no leg to stand on making that demand. Someone's initial error on the first invites does not change the fact that the event was, at the time the threat was made, not a Muslims-only event.