A messianic Jewish leader isn't surprised that a recent Gallup survey
shows Americans are more than twice as likely to express "prejudice"
against Muslims than against Christians, Jews, or Buddhists.
analysis from the Gallup World Religion Survey is part of a project on
finding ways to increase understanding between Americans and Muslims.
It reveals that nearly two-thirds of Americans say they have little or
no knowledge of Islam. Still, a majority dislike the faith.
Just over half of Americans polled said they feel no prejudice against
Muslims; however, 43 percent acknowledged at least "a little" prejudice
against Muslims, making a significantly higher percentage than that of
the other faiths in the survey.
Jan Markell, founder and director of Olive Tree Ministries, says no one should be surprised by this poll.
"How else are Americans supposed to act when political correctness let
an Army major at Fort Hood go and shoot up and kill or wound dozens of
American military personnel?" she wonders, also making mention of "the
Christmas bomber who tried to blow up Northwest Flight 253."
want to hold a different image of Muslims. "Until we start seeing them
marching in our parades, waving a flag; until Americans see Muslims
start physically demonstrating a love for this country, how can
Americans be anything but suspicious?" she asks.
The Olive Tree Mistries founder feels that Muslims must stop allowing
groups like the Council on American-Islamic Relations to be the
spokesmen for their religion.