Repression is often part of religion. [View all]

Religious people often complain about being repressed by others. Sometimes they're correct and they are being repressed. But, religions are repressive in their own right. Let's take Islam for example. One can find all sorts of inclusive statements in the Quran, just as in the Bible or any other scripture. But, try to book a trip to Mecca if you're not a Muslim. Or just go there on your own and make your own Hajj without getting permission. You'll learn about oppression PDQ.

Or, maybe, if you take your freedom of expression seriously, you might want to travel to Saudi Arabia and do a little proselytizing for your own religion. After all, you mean well, right? Again, you'll learn about direct religious repression right away.

Most religions are repressive in some ways. So are most philosophies of government. Why, here in the United States, being a Communist was illegal not that long ago. Even now, you'll get some serious blowback if you claim to be one. Or, try being a open Wiccan in some small town in the South.

Repression is everywhere. If you decry it, begin decrying it right here at home. You won't have to look far to find some. Get some practice here before trying to stop repression in China.