Islam, Free Speech, and Indiana University: What Would Jesus Do?

In a surprising twist, Musab Hassan Yousef, son of one of Hamas's founders, was slated to speak at Indiana University on March 26. However, protests by Muslim students have overshadowed the event, leading to its postponement until the Fall. This delay sheds light on the emotional discourse prevalent on college campuses, signaling a broader shift where the pursuit of truth is overshadowed by the embrace of Marxist ideals of social justice—a trend rooted in the turbulent atmosphere of the early 1970s.

This development not only raises concerns about academic freedom but also poses a challenge to the principles enshrined in the First Amendment. Serving as a cornerstone of American democracy, the First Amendment guarantees the essential right to freedom of speech. It reflects the deeply ingrained belief that individual liberty depends on the ability to express oneself without fear of government censorship or reprisal. Free speech empowers individuals by fostering open debate, challenging prevailing norms, and promoting exploring new perspectives. It also serves as a check on government authority. Therefore, in the American ethos, free speech is not merely a privilege but a sacred obligation. This foundational element ensures informed self-governance and upholds the ideals of liberty and justice for all.

Who is Musab Hassan Yousef?

Who exactly is Yousef, and why has his presence elicited such a response from the Muslim community? In 1999, Musab Hassan Yousef, the son of Sheik Mohammad Yousef, a founding member of Hamas, made a significant decision: he converted to Christianity from Islam. However, he kept this conversion private until 2008, fearing that his family members in Ramallah would face religious persecution if his faith change became known. 2007, he left the West Bank and relocated to the United States. Seeking political asylum, Yousef's request was granted by American authorities in 2010, with support from Gonen Ben Itzhak, a former Shin Bet handler, who testified on his behalf.

Why did Indiana University postpone this event? According to Yousef’s X account, formerly known as Twitter, the university offered this reason. 

"Indiana University is postponing the event on 3/26 due to serious and credible security issues involving the Muslim community and several White supremacist groups, according to the Chicago/Midwest offices of the FBI. The Muslim community chatter picked up by security is that they are planning on bringing as many as 1000 or more protesters to the event from a three-state area. The University is committed to rescheduling but will not be able to until the Fall semester." 

Yousef responded with the following statement on X: "This is how the Muslim minority in America exploits freedoms to intimidate and silence their political opponents. What will happen if they become a majority?" These words stem from a man who, influenced by the jihadist actions of Hamas, once bore witness to its daily implementation.

 A Letter a Muslim Sent to the University

I obtained a letter written the university. This will give you an example of how protests like this are furthered, which is through lies and propaganda. 

Hello, As a recent IU graduate, I am extremely disappointed by the invitation the university has granted to Mosab Hassan Yousef. I request that this event be canceled immediately. First, Mr. Yousef has a history of denying Palestinian death counts in Gaza – even though these counts have been verified by various institutions, including the United Nations and the United States Government. This would appear to contradict part of IU’s diversity statement. It states, “Indiana University frames diversity as an approach to viewing the world through a lens of intellectual versatility allowing truth and knowledge to permeate perception; emerge through exploration and discovery; and sustain critical thinking, learning, and problem-solving.” Intentionally promoting lies is a far cry from intellectual diversity and critical thinking. Additionally, Mr. Yousef has a long and proud history of Islamophobia. Mr. Yousef has no problem referring to Muslims as “savages.” Even worse, Mr. Yousef proudly declared that if he “had to choose between 1.6 Billion Muslims and a cow,” he would “choose the cow.” This would appear to contradict more of IU’s diversity statement. It states, “Indiana University practices diversity as a commitment to inclusion where everyone is welcomed, valued, and provided opportunities to grow so they can do their best work… Indiana University expresses diversity as a deep recognition and affirmation of who we all are and where we come from.” Inviting a man who actively promotes bigotry, hate, and Islamophobia to the campus is not creating an environment where everyone is welcomed and valued. In fact, I would argue that it is doing the opposite – it is creating a hostile environment for Arab and Muslim students like. Again, I reiterate that this event openly contradicts IU’s purported values of diversity. It does not promote intellectual diversity or critical thinking. Nor does it create an environment where everyone is welcomed and valued. As such, this event should be canceled immediately. Thanks”

What Lies Beneath the Surface of Muslims’ Responses?

What are the underlying ideas guiding Muslim students' responses? First, there's their interpretation of fitna within Islam. Fitna is commonly understood as a source of moral corruption or societal discord stemming from deviating from religious teachings, particularly evident when someone converts to another faith tradition. Such conversions, especially to Christianity, are seen as provoking temptation that challenges the faith and commitment of other Muslims to Islamic beliefs and practices.

When a Muslim converts to another religion, it's regarded as a serious offense and a betrayal of Islamic principles. This act is labeled as apostasy, signifying a rejection of Islam and its teachings. Within this framework, apostasy is condemned as a major sin and an act of defiance against God, sometimes carrying the threat of death.

The repercussions of apostasy in conservative interpretations can be severe. In certain conservative Muslim-majority regions and communities, apostasy is punishable by law, with individuals who renounce Islam facing social exclusion, discrimination, or even capital punishment. These penalties often find justification in interpretations of Islamic law (Sharia) that prescribe harsh consequences for apostasy.

Another reason why there is such an extreme reaction is because Yousef understands what is happening in Gaza. An article in the Jerusalem Post explains that Yousef gained prominence in 2010 with the release of his autobiography, "Son of Hamas: A Gripping Account of Terror, Betrayal, Political Intrigue, and Unthinkable Choices," co-authored with Ron Brackin. His compelling narrative details his journey, including his captivating speech at The Jerusalem Post Conference in New York in 2016. During this address, he shared his remarkable tale of breaking away from Hamas and embracing Christianity while becoming a staunch supporter of Israel. 

What Would Jesus Do?

During the challenging situation unfolding at Indiana University, where Musab Hassan Yousef's speaking engagement has been postponed amid protests by Muslim students, gospel-centered evangelicals are called to respond with love, grace, and wisdom. Grounded in our faith, we hold prayer as our cornerstone, lifting all parties involved for understanding, reconciliation, and a peaceful resolution.

Be Salt and Light

As Christians, we are called salt and light in the world. This means actively engaging in dialogue and fostering understanding with others, including Muslim students and various groups on campus. Initiating respectful conversations can help build mutual respect and appreciation for diverse perspectives. Hosting interfaith discussions and forums offers a valuable platform for exchanging ideas and promoting unity. Through these dialogues, we can bridge divides, address misconceptions, and cultivate relationships based on mutual respect and understanding. We broaden our perspectives and contribute to a more inclusive and harmonious campus community by embracing such opportunities.

Educating on Free Speech

Expanding on the significance of education,  Christians should understand the crucial importance of equipping themselves and others with resources that highlight the core values of free speech, academic freedom, and diversity of thought within university settings. Through education on these principles, Christians empower students to grasp their historical context and significance, fostering an environment where all voices are respected and cherished.

This educational endeavor goes beyond simply informing students of these principles' existence; it delves into their historical evolution and their pivotal role in shaping vibrant academic communities. By delving into the historical context, students gain a deeper understanding of the challenges and victories that have established free speech and academic freedom as cornerstones of higher education

Advocacy

Gospel-centered evangelicals are actively engaging with university officials, faculty members, and student representatives to advocate for the protection of free speech and academic freedom. This includes attending campus forums, submitting written proposals, and fostering ongoing dialogue to uphold these essential principles within the academic environment. Additionally, they are building coalitions with like-minded individuals and groups on and off campus, amplifying their collective voice and strengthening advocacy efforts to preserve diverse perspectives and thoughts.

Furthermore, Christians should utilize various platforms, such as social media, campus publications, and local media outlets, to raise public awareness about the importance of free speech and academic freedom. By sharing educational resources, personal testimonies, and relevant news articles, they aim to inform and mobilize support among the broader community. Additionally, they actively engage in legal advocacy, seek counsel and support to address concerns about potential violations of constitutional rights or university policies, and foster community engagement through public forums and discussions to promote dialogue and collaboration on these critical issues.

Exhibiting the Teaching of Christ

Expanding on the importance of exemplifying Christ-like behavior,  Christians must embody Jesus' teachings in all interactions, especially during disagreement or conflict. By demonstrating love, compassion, and humility, we reflect the core values of our faith and uphold the principles of grace and forgiveness. Our actions testify to the gospel's transformative power, as a beacon of light and hope amid darkness and division.

Responding with kindness and understanding can profoundly impact fostering understanding and reconciliation even when faced with opposition or hostility. Rather than reacting angrily or defensively, we are called to extend grace and seek common ground with others. In doing so, we honor Jesus' teachings and create opportunities for healing and restoration in relationships and communities. As ambassadors of Christ, our ultimate goal is to point others toward the love and redemption found in Him, inspiring unity and harmony amidst diversity and disagreement.

Conclusion

Amid the challenging situation unfolding at Indiana University, where Musab Hassan Yousef's speaking engagement has been postponed amid protests by Muslim students, Christians are called to respond with love, grace, and wisdom. Grounded in our faith, prayer remains our cornerstone as we lift all parties involved for understanding, reconciliation, and a peaceful resolution.

Christians are tasked with being salt and light in the world. This calls for active engagement in dialogue and fostering understanding with others, including Muslim students and various groups on campus. Initiating respectful conversations can help build mutual respect and appreciation for diverse perspectives while hosting interfaith discussions and forums, which offers a valuable platform for exchanging ideas and promoting unity. Through these dialogues, we can bridge divides, address misconceptions, and cultivate relationships based on mutual respect and understanding, contributing to a more inclusive and harmonious campus community.

Expanding on the importance of education,  Christians understand the crucial role of equipping themselves and others with resources, highlighting the core values of free speech, academic freedom, and diversity of thought within university settings. Educating students on these principles' historical context and significance empowers them to grasp the importance of fostering an environment where all voices are respected and cherished.

Furthermore, gospel-centered evangelicals actively advocate for free speech and academic freedom within the academic environment. By building coalitions, raising public awareness, engaging in legal advocacy, and exhibiting Christ-like behavior in all interactions, we aim to inspire unity and harmony amidst diversity and disagreement, ultimately pointing others toward the love and redemption found in Him.

Works Cited

“Mosab Hassan Yousef.” Wikipedia, https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mosab_Hassan_Yousef. Accessed 25 March 2024.

“The son of Hamas knows best.” The Jerusalem Post, 9 February 2024, https://www.jpost.com/opinion/article-785960#google_vignette. Accessed 25 March 2024.