America is on the verge of making history.

The possibility of electing one of the nation’s first Muslim U.S. senators is significant. As an American Muslim, I understand why many in my community see this as a moment of pride.

But representation, by itself, is not a virtue.

What matters is what a leader represents.

When Democratic Senate nominee El Sayyed described Israel as “bloodthirsty,” he crossed an important line. There is a fundamental difference between criticizing the actions of a government and using language that demonizes an entire nation.

Israel, like every democracy, deserves scrutiny. Governments should be criticized when criticism is warranted. I have no issue with honest debate about Israeli policy.

But words such as “bloodthirsty” do not invite debate. They inflame emotion. They reduce one of the world’s most complicated conflicts into a caricature of absolute evil.

That language does not move us closer to peace.

It moves us further away.

The Responsibility That Comes........

© The Times of Israel (Blogs)