It was appalling when construction equipment at the future site of a mosque in Murfreesboro, Tenn., near Nashville, was damaged by arson recently. Some are opposed to the project, but any such views should be expressed through peaceful free speech, not through property damage or vandalism.
It is now equally appalling that an outspoken opponent of the Murfreesboro mosque apparently is facing death threats. The woman, Laurie Cardoza-Moore, has notified authorities about threats that were left on her cell phone after she appeared on a nationwide TV show to discuss the mosque issue.
Two of the United States’ most cherished constitutional liberties are freedom of religion and freedom of speech. It is perfectly appropriate for both of those liberties to be exercised vigorously. But deliberate property damage and threats of violence against those with whom one disagrees undermine free speech and freedom of religion.
Peaceful persuasion, not coercion, should prevail in discussions on the Murfreesboro mosque – or any other matter of public debate. Those who commit or threaten acts of violence against innocent people should be prosecuted.