Vaughan Chetwynd
Tauranga
It seems that due to the Christchurch Mosque slaughter, the Crusaders' name is apparently considered to be offensive to the Muslim population in New Zealand.
While no one can deny the Christchurch mosque tragedy has been felt by most Kiwis, who rightly extend sincere sympathies to those affected, I do not think what happened in 1095 AD (the Crusades) should call for a change of name for the Christchurch rugby team in 2019 AD.
Before anyone should call me racist I would strongly recommend they consult a book called No God But One written by Nabeel Quewshi, a Muslim scholar converted to Christianity. No need to read it from page one. Just read from page 128 to 131. It is an historical record of the Crusades, and I say Crusades plural, because the Muslim "crusaders" of the day (640 AD -1090 AD) conquered two-thirds of the then known Christian world.
The Crusaders (UK) responded in 1095, regaining much of that taken. This latter Crusade is the one that is causing the current rugby name problems.
All that took place 1500 years ago so we have moved on since then and recognise that we, in New Zealand, are all Kiwis albeit we are of a different race, religion or even non religion. Let's agree to differ but learn to live at peace together.
Regarding the Christchurch rugby name, to appease all concerned perhaps the Crusaders should forget the horses swords and crosses but retain the name only.
Bryan Simmonds
Katikati
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