Written by Don Byrd
Religious leaders are speaking out against Donald Trump’s recent proposal to block Muslims from entering the United States.
Clergy can sign an open letter to Donald Trump organized by Faith in Public Life to condemn his plan. The letter, whose signatories include the BJC’s own Brent Walker, reflects the growing sentiment that we must speak out against increasing anti-Muslim rhetoric. (Visit the Faith in Public Life Facebook page for more on the letter and how you can sign if you’re interested).
Here is an excerpt:
We cannot remain silent as political leaders seek to divide Americans along religious lines for partisan gain. Your language and proposals serve only to divide our nation and to bring comfort to ISIS and their allies.
Rev. Dr. Roy Medley, General Secretary of American Baptist Churches USA, posted a powerful response to recent anti-Muslim Rhetoric, stating “Now is not the time to turn our backs on our Muslim neighbors.”
Rabbi Jack Moline of the Interfaith Alliance issued the following statement:
“A country that discriminates against individuals on the basis of their faith would be a poor excuse for America. Rooting our nation’s immigration policy in religious bigotry and discrimination will not make America great again.”
SBC leader Russell Moore also spoke out against the proposal, writing:
[T]hose of us who are Christians ought to stand up for religious liberty not just when our rights are violated but on behalf of others too.
. . . A government that can close the borders to all Muslims simply on the basis of their religious belief can do the same thing for evangelical Christians.
BJC Executive Director Rev. Brent Walker previously condemned Trump’s idea as “disgusting demagoguery.” You can read his statement here.
My previous post is here. Also see my response to Trump’s outrageous proposal for a national Muslim registry.
