Backlash
Terrorism and war inevitably give rise to concerns about “backlash”: the tendency we have to believe the worst of whatever group the individuals perpetrating these acts may belong to. One of the first things you may hear following an act of terror is concern for the innocents of the community, those who belong to the overall group, but not to the splinter, sect, or faction involved. Yes, there were incidents of one kind or another after the WTC murders and Bali atrocity, and they were quickly condemned, as is only right. Punishment was meted out where it was possible to do so. But I haven’t seen any evidence of a backlash following the initiation of hostilities in Iraq. At least, not until now. This is an insidious example of backlash, not least because it come from an official source. But unlike when racist members of government speak their prejudices directly and can be effectively suppressed by their colleagues and the public, Minister Nelson’s remarks are subversive and might track under the radar. He should be roundly criticised for his remarks and actions. I am gratified by Queensland Premier Peter Beattie’s stepping up on this. Private letter, indeed.

Larger picture note: the action of the US government against Iraq may legitmately be construed as "backlash." Just because we picked an easy target doesn't mean we didn't look for a bunch of Muslims to bash. Shame on Bush.