A rotating panel of experts from the worlds of philosophy, psychology and religion offer their perspective on the dilemmas that come with living in Southern California.

Today’s question: “Denver Nuggets guard Mahmoud Abdul-Rauf was suspended by the National Basketball Assn. after he declined to stand for the playing of the national anthem. (The suspension was lifted last week.) Abdul-Rauf, who is Muslim, cited religious beliefs for his position. Do employers have a right to require employees to participate in patriotic observances?”

Shabbir Mansuri

Founding director, Council on Islamic Education, Fountain Valley

Employment is essentially a contractual agreement between employer and employee. Thus, employers do have a right to require employee participation in patriotic observances, if such observances are integral to the job in question, and so long as the employee’s 1st Amendment rights are not compromised. Islam teaches Muslims to honor their commitments, which includes contractual obligations. Furthermore, there is a difference between worshiping the flag, which Muslims find inappropriate, and showing allegiance or respect to one’s country, which is something encouraged by Islam. Clearly, Brother Mahmoud has reconsidered his position and realized that standing for the anthem truly does not compromise his religious beliefs or his freedom of expression.

The Rev. Ric La Paz

Minister, Filipino Christian Church (Disciples of Christ)

Like religious belief, patriotism is a matter of personal choice. As such, patriotic observance cannot be legislated on a personal level. But patriotism to one does not mean disrespect for another. Mr. Abdul-Rauf is entitled to his convictions, but to hide his anger against a group of people under a religious facade would put God in a very awkward position. His is a product of misguided, unfounded theological calculation--because the God of all religion teaches respect and love for one another. It is the duty of all God-fearing individuals. In all respect, this is not an issue of religion but of character. As for patriotism, the more tolerant we are of others, the better we are.

The Rev. Tom Choi

Pastor, Ascension-English Ministry, Los Angeles Korean United Methodist Church

Patriotic observances are important in encouraging overall respect and providing moments for reflection. Employers may require such an observance unless it is a demeaning act (Koreans forced to bow in homage to Shinto shrines during the 1910-1945 Japanese colonization), an abhorrent symbol (the Nazi flag to Jews) or contrary to the beliefs of a religion. In Abdul-Rauf’s case, is he accurately representing the beliefs of Islam? Is it demeaning to stand momentarily while praying silently, as he now plans to do? Is the American flag clearly an abhorrent symbol? Abdul-Rauf, likely a victim of some oppression, has also been able to earn millions of dollars in America essentially engaging in a recreational activity.