27/05/2025
The Dangers of Legislating Religious Holidays in Liberia: A Call for Unity over Division:
Being given the name Liberia (Liberia was never founded but was given a name. You never founded what existed), Christian Principles do not provide one dominance over other faiths:
It is time for every Liberian to stop playing with the name and, in the name of God Almighty, instead worship God Almighty with sincerity and faith.
By: Austin S Fallah-A True Son of the Planet Earth Soil:
In Liberia, a nation with rich, diverse cultures, religions, and traditions, the recent proposition by Senators Kanneh of Gbapolu, Snowe of Bomi County, and Jallah of Lofa to establish national holidays for Christians and Muslims raises serious concerns.
While the intention may appear to foster religious inclusion, the underlying implications suggest a dangerous precedent that could fuel national disunity in a country still healing from its tumultuous past.
The question arises:
Should we allow the politicization of religion to gain popularity and sympathy at the expense of societal cohesion?
I will elaborate on the dangers of legislating religious holidays and emphasize the need for inclusivity without legal imposition.
First and foremost, it is crucial to acknowledge that Liberia is a nation comprised of many religions, including Christianity, Islam, traditional faiths, and newer faiths such as the Bahai and Hindu traditions.
In a society so richly diverse, the imposition of national holidays based on specific religions not only marginalizes other faiths but also sends a stark message that some beliefs are more valid or legitimate than others.
This legislative hijacking of religious observances threatens to exacerbate existing tensions and deepen social fissures.
If holidays are formally acknowledged for Christians and Muslims, what then will stop the religious leaders of other faiths from demanding similar recognition?
Consider the ramifications that the Seventh-day Adventists (SDAs), who observe Saturday as their holy day, might seek legal acknowledgment for their day of worship.
Traditional practitioners involved in the Sandi and Poro faiths could similarly demand recognition of their significant rituals.
This pattern of demands could endlessly expand to accommodate every faith and faction, leading to a fragmented society where legal distinctions become lines of division rather than bridges of unity.
In countries like the United States, Canada, and Great Britain, the legislative landscape is notably devoid of mandating religious holidays.
Instead, these nations exhibit a healthy respect for the separation of church and state, allowing individuals to make personal choices regarding observance without governmental interference.
Businesses in these nations often remain open during major religious holidays, illustrating a thriving economy that respects diverse practices without enforcing religious observance.
This autonomy acknowledges that adherence to particular holidays is a personal decision that should not be codified into law.
Moreover, the economic considerations associated with declaring national holidays cannot be overlooked.
Such legislative actions can significantly strain local businesses and the economy as a whole.
National holidays compel many businesses to close their doors, leading to a loss of productivity and revenue, which could be detrimental in a country like Liberia, which is still recovering from economic turmoil.
Perhaps we should ask, is establishing these holidays in the name of religious inclusivity worth the potential economic cost?
Additionally, there exists the possibility of generating a cycle of grievance if legislation leads to perceived inequities in recognition among the various faiths.
If one religious group is granted a holiday and another is not, will that create resentment?
Will certain faiths be seen as preferred or favored over others?
History has shown that favoring specific groups often leads to larger societal rifts, where the less represented feel disenfranchised and marginalized.
In Liberia's quest for peace and reconciliation, promoting such divisions would be a regression to times of conflict and unrest.
Instead, we should advocate for a societal framework that promotes pluralism and mutual respect without resorting to legal mandates.
Acknowledging and celebrating Liberia’s rich religious diversity can occur in ways that honor all beliefs without elevating one faith above the others.
Community celebrations, interfaith dialogues, and educational initiatives about various cultural practices can foster an environment of understanding and inclusivity.
Encouraging mutual respect among the various traditions can cultivate unity and strengthen the collective identity of all Liberians.
Further, it is crucial to engage in discussions exploring the moral and ethical dimensions of using religion as a political tool.
Politicians and leaders must recognize the responsibilities that come with their significant platforms and that playing with religious sentiments to garner sympathy or popularity can lead to unintended and harmful consequences.
Utilizing religion for political leverage undermines the essence of faith, which ought to bring people together rather than divide them for electoral gain.
In Liberia, the concentration should be on sustainable policies that elevate economic development rather than distract from it.
The potential for economic flourishing exists within the country’s numerous resources, agricultural wealth, and entrepreneurial spirit.
Rather than legislating religious observance, legislators should focus on crafting policies that support economic growth, job creation, and civil participation.
When Liberians pursue shared goals and improved living conditions, the sociopolitical landscape can transform into coexistence and solidarity.
Legislating national holidays honoring specific religions undermines the principles of unity, fairness, and economic health.
In a nation striving for reconciliation and diversity, it is paramount that we desist from divisive practices that categorize citizens by their respective faiths.
Rather than fueling discord through politically motivated legislation, we should emphasize community, mutual respect, and the economic well-being of all Liberians, regardless of their religious affiliations.
The path forward lies not in recognizing select religious holidays but in fostering a society where each faith and tradition can thrive harmoniously, nurturing shared values and a collective future for Liberia.
As we consider the moral imperative of our actions, let us prioritize unity over division, compassion over exploitation, and discuss the profound implications of allowing religion to drive the national agenda.
Liberians deserve a future where their identity is shaped by inclusivity, not exclusion, and every voice is honored in the quest for a shared national identity.
