“以族定葬”的困局与出路：论公墓管理的公共性回归

Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the need to reform the management model of Hui Muslim cemeteries in Guangzhou, advocating for a shift from ethnicity-based burial practices to a system that respects individual religious beliefs and funeral wishes, thereby promoting equality and inclusivity in burial practices [2][6][7]. Group 1: Current Management Issues - The current management of Hui Muslim cemeteries by the Islamic Association stems from historical policies aimed at respecting the burial customs of the Islamic minority, but this model has become problematic as it binds ethnic identity to religious affiliation [6]. - The "ethnicity-based burial" approach undermines individual religious freedom, as it assumes that all Hui individuals must adhere to Islamic burial practices, disregarding those who may not practice Islam or who may have converted to other religions [6][7]. - Allowing religious organizations to manage public burial facilities blurs the lines between religion and government, which contradicts the principle of separation of church and state [6]. Group 2: Proposed Reforms - The article calls for the gradual adjustment of the Hui Muslim cemetery management model, suggesting the elimination of single-ethnicity cemeteries and their incorporation into the public management framework of civil affairs [2][7]. - It proposes that access to Hui cemeteries should be based on the deceased's religious beliefs or funeral wishes rather than their ethnic identity, allowing for a more inclusive approach [2][7]. - Religious organizations should be permitted to provide religious services under government supervision but should not have control over cemetery management, ensuring the protection of minority rights while maintaining legal uniformity [2][7].