We understand how important inclusion is for all. In one lecture we were advised to include ethnic names when we write maths problems etc to promote inclusion. I read an article recently about Gillian Gibbons (right) a teacher in Khartoum. The children in her class chose a name for the class teddy. One child…whose name is Muhammad liked his name so much that they decided they wanted to name the teddy after him. And then all hell let loose. A parent complained to the authorities about Ms Gibbons who has now been arrested, but not currently charged.Having read the article in the education section of BBC news online I understand why they have taken this case of blasphemy so seriously. Although it does seem extreme. The main case against Ms Gibbons seems to be that she has named a class teddy in a Christian school the name of the Islam’s Prophet, and thus giving the Prophet an image, which they consider insulting. But how can they say that Muhammad cannot have an image yet children can be named Muhammad? Why can’t the same principles apply to the teddy? The naming of the teddy was down to the children and they chose a name they liked, no insult was intended.
Gordon Brown is asking for her release, Britain and the Sudan (left) have a good relationship which has the potential to be damaged depending on the outcome of this investigation. I think one of the most concerning details is the possible punishment if she is convicted. For naming a teddy Muhammad the 54-year-old teacher may be subjected to six months in prison, 40 lashes or fine….does this scare anyone else? If I have a class toy it will be named Bob and that will be the end of it.I understand that they take their religion seriously and that they have strict beliefs about the Prophet Muhammad not having an image or form, but as I mentioned above I don’t see how you can name your children Muhammad and that be ok. I think this case is being blown out of proportion and will be interested to see the outcome.
The photos are from the BBC website http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/world/africa/7114439.stm
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1 comment:
A useful post, with a link to an article and a video. Well done!
There are a number of issue here, besides the rather radical and convoluted religious ones. The politics of the region is extremely complicated and volatile. There are allegations about the Sudanese government deliberately heightening tensions in nearby Darfur.
The whole issue has been milked by the Sudanese government to put the UK in a bad light while making them look good by releasing Ms G after such a short time. Their perception is that we now owe them a favour for not killing her.
You will remember the recent fiasco involving some of our sailors and Iran... also milked by that country.
I must say that I was astounded at Ms G's stupidity. I would have thought that anyone with half a brain would realize that naming a bear Mohammed in a radical Islamic country would cause offense. Extremists of any persuasion are deliberately thin skinned, and always on the lookout for an opportunity to highlight their cause.
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