Interfaith Alliance Celebrates the Muslim Ban’s Repeal

For Immediate Release Contact: Shannon Craig Straw, West End Strategy Team, 202-776-7700, scstraw@westendstrategy.com

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
January 20, 2021

CONTACT
Manisha Sunil, West End Strategy Team
msunil@westendstrategy.com; Phone: 202-417-0171

Interfaith Alliance Celebrates the Muslim Ban’s Repeal, Urges Passage of NO BAN Act

WASHINGTON — Today, in one of his first acts as president, President Biden issued an executive order rescinding the Muslim and African travel bans. In response Katy Joseph, director of policy & advocacy for Interfaith Alliance, released the following statement:

“In his first week in office, President Trump sought to define our nation through exclusion, signing into law the first of three bans on travel from majority Muslim and African countries. But four years ago – and every day since – Americans of all faiths, philosophies, and experiences united against these discriminatory policies. Interfaith Alliance, our network, and supporters across the country raised the alarm, fighting to see this overtly anti-Muslim, anti-immigrant policy reversed. To those who lifted your voices – your persistence made today’s victory possible.

“Today is a day of celebration and relief for the thousands of Americans separated from their families by the Muslim and African bans. For those seeking opportunity and safety in this country, President Biden has taken a vital first step in restoring America’s legacy as a beacon of opportunity for all. Now, Congress must do its part to secure this legacy for the future.

“The NO BAN Act would ensure that no president can ever again discriminate on the basis of faith. We must send a clear message that excluding millions of people because of where they’re from or how they pray is incompatible with the values of an inclusive, vibrant democracy. Passing this historic bill will prohibit similar action by a future administration and affirm the meaning of true religious freedom in immigration.”

If you are interested in speaking further with Katy, please contact Manisha Sunil at (202) 417-0171 or msunil@westendstrategy.com.

Interfaith Alliance is a network of people of diverse faiths and beliefs from across the country working together to build a resilient democracy and fulfill America’s promise of religious freedom and civil rights not just for some, but for all. We mobilize powerful coalitions to challenge Christian nationalism and religious extremism, while fostering a better understanding of the healthy boundaries between religion and government. We advocate at all levels of government for an equitable and just America where the freedoms of belief and religious practice are protected, and where all persons are treated with dignity and have the opportunity to thrive. For more information visit interfaithalliance.org.