OKLAHOMA CITY, Oct. 25 (UPI) -- At least 24 Oklahoma state legislators have refused to accept copies of the Koran given by the Governor's Ethnic Advisory Committee.
The centennial edition honors the 100th anniversary of Oklahoma statehood, but some lawmakers attacked Islam, The Tulsa World reported Thursday.
“Most Oklahomans do not endorse the idea of killing innocent women and children in the name of ideology,” Rep. Rex Duncan, a Republican, said.
Rep. Dan Sullivan, also a Republican, said that he is accepting his copy. He also offered to find homes for any Korans that other legislators do not want.
“I’m not endorsing the Islamic faith, but I certainly feel like I can accept a gift that was given as a goodwill gesture,” he said.
Gov. Brad Henry, through a spokesman, said that he is accepting a Koran in "the spirit of friendship and respect" with which it was given.
House Speaker Lance Cargill plans to give members of the advisory council Bibles.
