FOLLOWING the tragic incidents in America, we must refrain from labelling the suspects as 'Islamic' extremists.
In Northern Ireland, we frequently see acts carried out by so-called Protestants and Catholics but we do not use the label 'Christian' extremists. Nor do we assume for a single minute that Christians everywhere condone these actions.
Religion is a very emotive subject for many people and it does not take a great deal to stir up religious intolerance.
By using religious labels, we run the risk of escalating conflict around the world in the name of religion when, in reality, there is an underlying cause for the actions of these extremists, which has nothing to do with religion.
More than ever, the media has a great responsibility to report facts, but if they continue to use religious labels they run the risk of inflaming religious hatred around the world.
GRAHAM DEAN, Regents View, Blackburn.
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