The Force of Reason

This brave and outspoken woman certainly deserves support from the freedom of speech angle. I'm certain that many people would agree with her politically, too. Our big problem here is that CaFE has simply 'gone off the boil' (sorry, I couldn't resist that...). Let's be honest here. We can't even drum up much support for a campaign about free speech here in the UK, let alone elsewhere, although it would be nice to be proved wrong.

CaFE needs another campaign to rally around, just like the Danish cartoonists. I think this issue (of her trial and persecution) fits the bill perfectly. It also has international implications, just like the Danish cartoonists. Can the blog not be revived around this issue? How about another rally or demo?

I have no control over Peter Risden's blog and he appears to have vanished off the face of the earth - he hasn't been heard from for months. Anyone could start a blog, including you if you've got the time and the inclination, but you should never underestimate just how difficult it is to attract interested people - even to what seems a deserving cause. The Cartoon contoversy differed because it became relevant to people in the UK following the infamous Muslim marches through London. There was also a suggestion that the government were considering changes to the law regarding critisism of a religion. I'm not being defea-*test*-('"). I like to pick fights where I can make an impression. This cause, though noble, is unlikely to receive much support at the moment. Although, of course, events elsewhere could change that...

I should add for the record that Fallaci is standing trial on charges of violating an Italian law that prohibits "outrage" to religion. The offence of "defaming Islam" in a 2004 book, with which Oriana Fallaci is charged, carries a fine of up to $7,500 (U.S.) if she is found guilty.

If they have scuttled, then someone else should pick up the baton. This forum is a start. Don't worry, I know how difficult it is to get people together. How about a website (rather than a blog) which this forum can be a part of. In this way, we might get some more members and, more importantly, organisers. Any volunteers?

I suspect that we're talking to each other at the moment... :(

Time for a website then, which this forum can feed off. You have a nice, cuddly logo around a nice sounding name. Some of the work has been done, raising awareness and developing a theme, thanks to the rally in London. The website could be a rallying point for those interested in free speech and civil liberty. How about it?

Oriana Fallaci certainly deserves the support of all who value free expression. I’ve read both ‘The Rage and the Pride’ and ‘The Force of Reason’ and am looking forward to reading the third book in the “trilogy” when it becomes available; I was very impressed by her candour and even though she has been criticised for her written style I found both books very readable. In my view the parallel she draws with the Inquisition is right on the button. I think that the trial, that Percy draws attention to, proves the points that she makes. I think perhaps that people will only value free expression when they have lost it! I would quite happily be part of a campaign that defends her.

I too would happily join in any campaign to defend Oriana Fallaci. With regards to the aims of CaFE in favour of free expression I feel that this term is too vague and all encompassing. I originally attended the March for Free Expression because I am becoming increasingly worried about the islamisation of the UK, and Europe for that matter, and the fact that muslims seem to have more protection when expressing their views than anyone else. In connection with free expression, I would be interested to learn how other members feel about the Islam Expo taking place at London's Alexandra Palace from 6-9 July, to coincide with last year's London bombings when they will freely spout their views about how islam has been hijacked, is a religion of peace, has contributed to civilization, blah, blah, blah!

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