The Daily Egyptian is published by the students of SIU at Carbondale. Except during vacations and exam weeks, The Daily Egyptian is published Monday through Friday during the fall and spring semesters and TWThF during the summer semester."

Vote to protect freedom

Yusuf Islam, a Muslim formerly named Cat Stevens, was denied entry into the United States of America and then deported back to his home in the United Kingdom. His name appeared on a no-fly list because the U.S. government says that he allegedly has contributed to charitable organizations, who in turn contribute to terrorist organizations.

This is a man who has vehemently and consistently condemned terrorist acts and has always advocated peace through his songs and his extensive humanitarian relief work.

Connecting him to any terrorist organization in any way is a direct insult not only to him, but also to those Muslims and Non-Muslims of the U.S., Europe and the world over who love and admire him for the many ways he builds and promotes a positive image of Islam and Muslims.

Why they would put his name on the no-fly list is beyond me, but as Americans, we risk having such atrocious injustices happen again and again if we do not get out and vote.

It is our duty to let our voices be heard so that exceptional people like Yusuf Islam are not wrongfully labeled as supporters of terrorism and denied entry into our country.

After 9/11 it is totally understandable that with the implementation of Homeland Security, our nation will be a much more difficult place to enter for those who wish harm upon us and our fellow Americans. But Yusuf Islam is a man who is less of a threat to the United States than many Americans are to their own nation!

If he is on the no-fly list, then who else might be there? Kareem Abdul Jabbar?

Muhammad Ali? Hakeem Olajuwon? The ENTIRE Iraqi Soccer Team? Should we stand by and let our tax dollars be spent in such a terrible way? I think not.

So please, do yourself, your community, your nation, and most importantly the WORLD a huge favor - vote!

Rasheed Muwallif
Senior, Administration of Justice

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