Fairchild on Farrakhan

The currently publicized conflict between Black Muslims and Jews is due to their similarities, not their differences. The problem is a theology of separatism. Separatism requires a community to set itself against all others (usually by claiming that all other communities are against it). Are there any accusations more common (and more inflammatory) than racism and anti-Semitism?

If the only end to this conflict is for one community to assume all responsibility and guilt, then it will never end. I suggest a better way. What is needed is a theology that includes forgiveness, humility, and charity and one whose doctrines teach that, in spite of our differences, we are all God’s children and required not only to love but to forgive our neighbor.

TOM BLAIR

San Pedro