Former US president Bill Clinton has criticised the growing anti-Muslim sentiment in American politics, saying he is tired of seeing Muslims insulted simply because of their faith.
Clinton made the remarks while speaking at the interfaith event Many Faiths, One Florida, held at Koinonia Worship Center in Florida on Tuesday.
“I’m sick of seeing Muslims insulted just because they are Muslims,” he said, addressing what he described as a political culture increasingly dividing communities along religious and cultural lines.
He stressed that differences in faith should never be used as an excuse to spread hatred or look down on other communities.
Clinton also recalled how his daughter, Chelsea Clinton, read the Quran from cover to cover when she was 15.
He said Chelsea later drew his attention to a passage from the Islamic holy book that highlights the importance of understanding and respecting differences among people.
“Dad, read this,” Clinton recalled her telling him.
The former president then referred to the meaning of verse 13 of Surah Al-Hujurat, which states that humanity was created into nations and tribes so people could get to know one another.
Clinton said the message served as a reminder that diversity should be an opportunity for people to learn from and understand one another, rather than a source of hostility.
He added that every religion had individuals who committed wrongdoing, but the actions of a few should not be used to condemn an entire faith community.
“Every religion has people who do bad things because we are all human beings with weaknesses.
“But I’m sick of religious wars and cultural conflicts,” he said.
Clinton’s remarks come amid continuing political disputes in the United States over religion, including President Donald Trump’s criticism of Abdul El-Sayed, a Muslim Democratic candidate contesting a US Senate seat in Michigan.
Trump had reportedly used religiously charged remarks while attacking El-Sayed’s candidacy.
Clinton also condemned political approaches that divide society into “us” and “them”, urging Americans to prioritise understanding over fear and hatred.
The event brought together Muslim, Christian and Jewish community leaders and was also attended by David Jolly, a Democratic candidate for Florida governor.
