Political correctness and responding to the London Bridge attack

The terrorist attack on the London Bridge this past weekend has generated a range of reactions — sadness, anger, frustration, hopelessness, and criticism.

But one response in particular breaks my heart — generalized blame.

(Let’s be clear, I’m not talking about holding the individuals responsible who committed the crime.)

I’m referring to the generalization that Islam and all Muslims are to blame. I’ve heard many hateful comments spoken under the guise of dispelling political correctness.

“I’m tired of all this political correctness crap.”

“We need to call it like it is.”

“I don’t care who gets offended — people are offended by the truth.”

While aspects of “calling it like it is” and declaring “the truth” may seem noble, I believe it’s actually an attempt to regain control (or sense of control) by presenting a simplistic explanation (e.g. all Muslims are evil) and solution (e.g. ban all travel from Islamic countries).

It’s an excuse to bypass the hard work of listening and understanding the other stories involved. It’s choosing hate instead of love.

I know terrorist attacks are infuriating — and rightfully so. But let’s not respond with generalized blame.

Let’s start with empathy.