Opinion articles provide independent perspectives on key community issues, separate from our newsroom reporting.
Central Florida U.S. Rep. Randy Fine recently put out a post on social media suggesting, if he had to, he would choose dogs over Muslims, saying it is an “easy” choice.
While this comment got widespread condemnation and calls for censure/resignation, neither of those things has happened as of the writing of this piece. Switch out “Muslims” for any other group, and we can be sure at least one of those things would have happened by now.
Sadly, some people online are even leaning into the Islamophobic nature of Fine’s post and echoing hateful statements about Islam and Muslims — many of them preceded by false claims such as “Islam teaches Muslims to hate dogs.” This is often followed by something much harsher, fear‑based or outright dehumanizing. I want to say this clearly and calmly: That claim is false, and it harms real people.
Muslims can own dogs. Muslims can love dogs. And kindness to animals is not optional in Islam. It is a moral obligation.
What often gets misunderstood is that Islam makes a distinction between ritual practice and moral worth. Some Muslims choose not to keep dogs inside their homes for reasons related to prayer and ritual cleanliness. That choice is similar to how some religious communities follow dietary rules or purity laws. It is not about hatred, fear or viewing dogs as lesser or evil.
In fact, Islamic teachings speak very strongly...
"I think this will definitely result in some additional actions being brought that would not have otherwise been brought," Dan Ramish said. Guest: Dan Ramish Title: Partner, Haynes Boone S...