Over the weekend, Muslims in The Hague, a city in the Netherlands, came together to protest against the burning of the Quran and other acts of Islamophobia happening across Europe.
Voices of Peace and Unity
The protesters gathered in Malieveld Square, carrying copies of the Quran and holding signs that read powerful messages like "The Quran gives us light to guide us, fire cannot burn the Sun" and "I love the Quran." They marched towards the Danish and Swedish embassies to make their voices heard.
Strong Words Against Quran Attacks
The demonstrators criticized governments that allow hostile acts against the Quran. They shouted phrases like "Stop burning our book and holy books" and "Shame on the Danish and Swedish governments!" They also recited verses from the Quran to show their love and respect for their holy book.
Psychologist Speaks Out
Serdar Isik, a psychologist, read a statement in front of the Swedish Embassy. He expressed how deeply hurt Muslims feel when the Quran is attacked in countries like Denmark, Sweden, and the Netherlands. Isik called the act of tearing the Quran under police protection a racist act and criticized The Hague Mayor Jan van Zanen for allowing such attacks to happen.
Demands for Religious Peace
The protesters demanded that the Dutch government create a law that emphasizes the protection of religious peace. They want to ensure that religious and non-religious groups and individuals can peacefully coexist in the Netherlands.
Provocations and Counter-Demonstrations
Rasmus Paludan, a far-right politician from Denmark, continued to provoke by burning the Quran in several Swedish cities. Edwin Wagensveld, the leader of an Islamophobic organization in the Netherlands, also tore the Quran in demonstrations. Muslim groups held a counter-demonstration in Rotterdam to oppose the Quran burning planned by Wagensveld's group.
Standing Up Against Hate
Despite the challenges, Muslims in The Hague and across Europe are coming together to stand up against Islamophobia and protect their religious beliefs. They believe in promoting peace, unity, and respect for all.
