My mistake, my apology
Marc MacDonald
Issue date: 11/4/08 Section: Opinion
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When compiled, the author sought out various items around their house to include in the list, and subsequently complete it. This is not to act as a justification for including the Qur'an in that list, but rather, an explanation as to why it was included.
Over the past week, we have been inundated with e-mail, phone calls and in-person complaints aimed at our inclusion of this item.
The result was the displeasure of many, as we failed to realize the extreme sensitivity of including the Qur'an in that list.
As the editor-in-chief of this newspaper, it is my responsibility, and ultimately my mistake, for allowing this most unfortunate circumstance to occur.
For that, I apologize.
It was not my, or any Brock Press staff member's, aim to intentionally offend anyone with any item that appeared in the list.
One of the biggest concerns that have crossed my desk in the past week is that we view the Qur'an to be on the same level as a urine sample or stool sample (other items in the list). I can unequivocally assure you that we do not view the Qur'an to be similar in any way, nor do we think that it should be viewed with disrespect.
I am now aware of the na've mistake that was made, and that my oversight on this issue has caused so many to feel as though our intent was to disrespect or offend them.
I would like to thank each individual who has voiced their displeasure with this issue, as it has allowed me to learn more about other cultures and faiths. I regret that this was the instance that allowed for this to happen, but I am thankful nonetheless.
I would also like to thank Daud Grewal, the President of the Muslim Students' Association, for his open mind and open heart in accepting my sincere apology and allowing me to explain the thinking on our end.
I realize that many have gone to Daud in hopes of an explanation and a course of action, and I can assure you all that he has represented you in the most professional manner possible.
Living in Canada and going to Brock is, in my opinion, a privilege, both for those who came here and those who were born here. We are fortunate to live in the greatest country on earth; a country that is accepting, tolerant and permits the freedoms to live a just life.
Viewing Comments 1 - 10 of 14
Guy
posted 11/05/08 @ 9:57 PM EST
I find it stupid that you have to apologize at all. Are we to think that a firm handshake is on the same level as stool samples. People need to take a joke, christians, jews, buddhist, hindu, and many other religions dont complain when their faith is made fun of, just the people of Islam, they seem to freak out everytime a non-muslim even mentions their faith. (Continued…)
Craig
posted 11/05/08 @ 11:25 PM EST
I find the need to apologize ridiculous. If you NEED to apologize to the sensitive Muslims,then I also think an apology is due for the Communists and Nudists. (Continued…)
Raf
posted 11/06/08 @ 1:00 PM EST
To the commenters above:
it seems that you are showing a truly disgusting and separatist view on muslims. To be frank, those who complained to the editor-in-chief were actually non-muslims, workers at Brock, such as professors and administrative workers. (Continued…)
Jolene
posted 11/06/08 @ 1:04 PM EST
At first, I thought that students who complained were a little too sensitive with this, but really, what do I know as a non-Muslim??
Nevertheless, this was a very classy apology by the editor. (Continued…)
Michael
posted 11/06/08 @ 1:51 PM EST
What I don't understand is why the Muslim community took it as offensive. It was on a list of treats that were to be given to children if they stopped by your house on Halloween night. (Continued…)
Juan
posted 11/06/08 @ 2:19 PM EST
Raf,
I'm curious as to what you think the outcome would have been if the Torah or the Bible would to have been included. You say that it would go beyond a letter of apology, but personally, I don't think an apology would have ever been needed. (Continued…)
cAY
posted 11/06/08 @ 5:47 PM EST
Raf, I find your views on free speech downright disturbing, and that's an understatement. A scenario like this proves how hyper-sensitive people can be. (Continued…)
AbuMaryum
posted 11/06/08 @ 8:22 PM EST
It is quite funny to me how some people don't get it!
First of all I would like to educate those of you who are unaware of what the Quran is. The Quran is holiest book in Islam and the only one that includes only the words of God. (Continued…)
Nun
posted 11/06/08 @ 9:55 PM EST
Dear Brock Press,
You've really outdone yourselves (like always). I thought the Halloween article was hilarious, but this apology takes the cake!
Guy
posted 11/06/08 @ 9:55 PM EST
The idea that Islam is tolerant of other religions is a joke. Yes most are now, but in their holy book it says to treat people of other faiths as second class citizens, and the devout believe in this. (Continued…)
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