Posted by
Terry Paulson on Friday, August 21, 2009 2:38:00 PM
When I awoke to Fox News coverage on the pending court decision regarding the return of Christian teenager Rifqa Bary to her Islamic parents, I was spurred into action. Having seen and read of the number of Christian converts who had been killed by family as a result of their interpretation of Sharia Law, I could understand Rifqa's panic. Knowing that a stand by Governor Crist was a final option to ensure that she would not be returned, I wrote:
Governor Crist—
Honor killing is certainly not a part of every Islamic family’s faith, but it is real. To send Rifqa Bary back to her family when she fears Sharia Law, puts her at risk. With the visibility of this case, it may even challenge others outside her family to act. Christians are leaving the Middle East because they are the least protected faith.
I was born in Florida…OK you kicked me out at 3 months of age. But I’m a native of your fine state and a Christian, Republican columnist for Townhall.com. If Rifqa is sent back and she is killed, that is a heavy weight to carry. I know that goes with the territory. I just wanted to weigh in on the issue before the deadline today. Give her a chance to live out her faith.
Terry Paulson, PhD
I was pleased to get the following reply from Governor Crist's office indicating their decision to intervene to provide sanctuary for this young woman. We hope that in the future, the family chains that are now strained may one day be healed and both can appreciate the right of individuals to choose their own faith journey. Here is the Governor's reply:
From: Governor Charlie Crist [
mailto:Charlie.Crist@eog.myflorida.com]
Sent: Friday, August 21, 2009 10:43 AM
To: Governor Charlie Crist
Subject: Thank you for contacting Governor Charlie Crist Thank you for contacting Governor Charlie Crist and sharing your concerns about Ms. Fathima (Rifqa) Bary. The Governor asked that I respond on his behalf.
Governor Crist is committed to protecting Ms. Bary's health, safety and welfare. Governor Crist directed the Secretary of the Department of Children and Families, George Sheldon, to petition the court for placement in shelter and custody under the Florida Department of Children and Family Services (Department). As a result, the court placed Ms. Bary in protective custody and she has been placed in a licensed foster care home under the supervision of the Department.
The Secretary of the Department of Children and Family Services and the Governor's General Counsel will be at today's court hearing. Please be assured Governor Crist will make a decision that is in the best interests of and ensures the continued health, safety and welfare of Ms. Rifqa Bary.
Thank you again for taking the time to contact Governor Crist.
Sincerely,
Warren Davis
Office of Citizen Services
That is good news, and that is leadership. I could not be more pleased with his actions at this difficult time.