The recent State Department report on persecution of Christians in other countries is certainly important (Main news, July 22). But it makes me worry that the all-too-frequent cries of persecution here at home will now increase.
It has become common for Christian extremists in America to yell “persecution” any time anyone disagrees with their doctrines. A gay couple holding hands in public is called an “assault” on Christians. An editorial calling for equal rights for gay Americans is called “Christian bashing.” Laws delivering equal rights for gays and other non-discrimination policies are called “attacks” on religious freedom. The extremists believe they have religious freedom only when no one is ever allowed to question anything they say.
Clearly the gross injustices and violence perpetrated around the world against Christians are wrong. But let’s not allow Christian extremists here at home to jump on that bandwagon, as many have already begun to do.
