When is support not support? No, I am not talking about the Obama administration’s lack of presence at the anti-terrorism rally in Paris (even though it was disgraceful). I’m referring to the refusal of news organizations, over the past few days, to show any past covers of the Charlie Hebdo magazine that depicted the Prophet Muhammad. While they were quick to jump on the “Je Suis Charlie” bandwagon, they were also careful to avoid broadcasting anything precarious. Look, I get it. Who wants to put a target on their back unnecessarily? It’s much easier to be an armchair (or should I say Facebook) freedom fighter. Nonetheless, true reform is only achieved once a ground swell of individuals collectively take a stand and do the very act that is forbidden. The Civil Rights Movement would never have been successful if protestors simply wore t-shirts with the words “Je Suis MLK” upon them. No, it required African Americans deliberately violating the ridiculous Jim Crow laws. Fear be damned. I’m proud to say that a few major news organizations, have stepped up their game today. With the announcement that the print run of the newest Charlie Hebdo issue has been raised from the usual sixty thousand to a remarkable three million, several media outlets are showing its cover.

I must say, this cartoon is brilliant! Not only does it feature a teary eyed Prophet Muhammad holding a “Je Suis Charlie” sign, above him are the words “Tout est pardonne,” which translates in English as “all is forgiven.” This image defiantly depict Muhammad, while at the same time, humanizes and separates him from terrorism. Those in media who choose to publish it deserve our support. Here’s what USA Today’s Editor at Large, Rem Rieder, said was their reason to published the cover:

I’m writing this quite early in the morning, and there are already several others who have published it. Let’s hope CNN, Fox, MSNBC, and the other major news outlets show the same courage. If they do not, let’s ask them why. What do you think? Brother Richard