There was talk of a Christmas tree being pulled from a store in Avenues Mall because of Sharia law; but then it was reported (fortunately enough) that the move had absolutely nothing to do with religious reasons but was the result of a violation of regulations. Someone even said the tree had been moved to another part of the same mall. Whatever the real reason and whatever the truth, the rumor has opened a box of worms. Residents were asked about their views on the incident, and a few people said having a Christmas tree in public violates Islamic principles. Fortunately, other locals didn’t see it as a threat at all, and some locals even liked the idea of ​​a Christmas tree. To even think that this should be a question that is asked, or a topic of debate, in the first place is offensive because it exposes our biases. (A local who was interviewed made it clear that we only have two public holidays in this country – a reference to the two Eids of the Islamic calendar). Fair enough, one might argue. But the question is, why is it when a non-Muslim country dissuades Islamic customs, it is considered Islamophobia, but in that region (or country, for that matter) there is no mention phobias that we have of others or address the blatant denial that we have of our phobias?

We are in 2021. In less than two weeks, it will be 2022. Today, identifying a country based on its religion is inaccurate since we are in the era of globalization, and we can see how much of a mentality ” us against them ”has deteriorated. touched the globe. Moreover, this model only works if one indulges in discrimination.

Yes, it is a predominantly Muslim country, just as there are predominantly non-Muslim countries in this world. But all of these countries allow temples and festivals of other religions. What about us, Kuwait? Why are we so determined (pardon the pun) to get stuck in the realm of separation? Are most other Muslim countries (including most of our neighbors) “less Muslim” than us? And, if they are, what message do we send: that Muslim countries must boast of exclusivity?

In case we haven’t received the memo, division is no longer appropriate. The new land is all about inclusiveness. And if we’re not ready for that, let’s try tolerance (a euphemism for “We don’t love you but okay, we’ll coexist with you”). Even a hint of tolerance would do the trick here. Even a dash.

Merry Christmas, Kuwait!