I think it prudent to start off by emphatically and unequivocally stating that neither this cartoon nor this article accompaniment is in any way an attack on Islam or Muslims. It is not meant to incite hatred or cause any tensions. This cartoon and article is simply a protest in defense of freedom of speech and the right to freedom of expression. It is not a protest being orchestrated against Muslims in any way. I am joining my fellow cartoonists and other artists from across the globe in protesting the violent threats made against Trey Parker and Matt Stone.

Obviously this is a contentious issue - whenever religion is perceived to be involved, it inevitably raises the ire of religious followers - particularly those that are somewhat more fanatical in their beliefs. It is understandable that people may be offended by the work cartoonist do, especially when we live in countries that promotes civil rights such as freedom of expression and the right to free speech.

The key here, however, is that these rights and liberties cut both ways. As cartoonists, we have the right to express our satirical views for others to consider, masticate and debate. Similarly, just as we have the right to draw cartoons or shovel satire-laced opinions onto the streets of public consideration, so too you (I daresay the opinionated public), have the right to air your opinion. Similarly, you have the right to NOT read the cartoons or these articles. The essence of the "Draw Mohammed Day" protest is not about attacking Muslims. Neither is it attacking some people because they are airing their contempt over these cartoons - in fact, we encourage it under the same mantra of freedom of speech and expression we so strongly believe in. No, this is simply a protest due to the severity of the threats that have been issued against Trey Parker and Matt Stone. I know it is only a very small group of fanatical fundamentalists behind these threats - that is pretty normal in a world with close to 6.7 billion people and as many egos and opinions.

The whole point of a satirical cartoonist is to make people think. We employ humour (sometimes not so successfully I will concede) to make people laugh at themselves while forcing them to evaluate their own opinions on the matter. Not everyone is going to agree with what we draw or write or sing, but just getting them to think means we've succeeded in our job. So, in some strange and twisted way, the threats against Matt and Trey proves that satire is needed. That there is this backlash protest unofficially officially named "Draw Mohammed Day" proves it works.

Now, let me get back to attempting to draw Mohammed again...