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on May 31, 2016 at 6:00 AM, updated May 31, 2016 at 6:06 AM
This feature is coordinated by The Post-Standard/Syracuse.com and InterFaith Works of CNY. Follow this theme and author posted Sunday through Saturday.

Dr. Muhammad Zafar Iqbal
InterFaith Works of Central New York
True Islam teaches that every human being has the right to freedom of speech and freedom of religion without the threat of coercion or punishment. This understanding stems directly from the Holy Quran, which clearly declares, “There is no compulsion in religion.” (2:257) Therefore, Islam wholeheartedly supports the First Amendment of the United States Constitution as well as the Universal Declaration of Human Rights—both of which guarantee freedom of conscience, religion, and speech. The Holy Quran and the life of the Holy Prophet Muhammad demonstrate that true Islam does not sanction death or any other worldly punishment for changing one’s faith (i.e., apostasy). Tomorrow, True Islam and separation of mosque and state.
Dr. Muhammad Zafar Iqbal is President of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community, Syracuse chapter. A Radiation Oncologist, he formerly practiced in Auburn. Dr. Iqbal is currently Medical Director of Buffalo Medical Group, Buffalo, New York.