The PERSPI Award

Rep. Steve King (R-IA)

CSW 07-29

Are you aware that in October of this year, 2007, the House of Representatives, by a vote of 376-0, recognized the Muslim holiday of Ramadan as the "holy month of fasting and spiritual renewal for Muslims worldwide." And as part of the same resolution acknowledged the Islamic religion as "one of the great religions of the world" and hatred and bigotry against Muslims should be rejected?

Muslim Rep. Keith Ellison (D-MN), who wouldn't open his mouth during the "teddy bear fiasco," couldn't keep it shut on this one saying, "It's a very American thing to do. We are a nation of religious tolerance and religious inclusion." Muslim leaders praised the move.

Also in October, Diwali, a holiday celebrated by Hindus, Sikhs, Buddhists and others, was declared a "festival of great significance to Indian Americans and the people of India." This House vote was 358-0.

So what, you ask? We'll tell you. This is our country, Christmas is our holiday, celebrated by the vast majority of Americans, yet Christmas has no mention in any House resolution.

Along comes Representative Steve King (R-IA) who introduced a bill "recognizing the importance of Christmas and the Christian faith" which is scheduled for a roll call vote today, 12/11/07. "Because Congress can honor Ramadan, Congress can honor Christmas," King said. "The foundation of this American culture is Christianity."

We honor Mr. King by bestowing him the PERSPI Award. Will Nancy Pelosi allow a vote on this resolution? We will be watching!