[Greens-Media] Sen. KERRY NETTLE: Religious leaders should call for peace not divide the community

[Edwards, Jon (Sen K. Nettle)]

19.09.06

Religious leaders should call for peace not divide the community
 

Greens Senator Kerry Nettle today called on Cardinal George Pell to use
his public position to deliver a message of peace not participate in the
demonising of the Islamic community.

"Cardinal Pell's comments are deliberately inflammatory coming at a time
of massive pressure on the Muslim community," Senator Nettle said.

"Cardinal Pell knew full well that the 'take home message' of his
comments would be that Muslims are prone to violence, and that this
would resonate in a community already besieged by a fear campaign
against Muslims by the federal government.

"Cardinal Pell is not fooling anyone in claiming that his comments are
innocent theological queries.

"Presidents, prime ministers and generals Christian, Jewish and Muslim
regularly invoke God whilst making decision to drop bombs on civilians
and Cardinal Pell knows that. 

"I urge Cardinal Pell along with all religious leaders to use what
profile they have to call for peace. 

"Cardinal Pell should be calling for a withdrawal from Iraq, from
Afghanistan and Palestine, an end to the genocide in Dafur and all
bombings and acts of political violence.

Contact - Jon Edwards 0428 213 146