September 17, 2008

Washington, DC – The Rev. Dr. C. Welton Gaddy, President of the Interfaith Alliance released the following statement today in response to the distribution of the anti-Muslim film, “Obsession” in newspapers across the country:

“The Interfaith Alliance is profoundly disturbed to hear that 28 million copies of the three-year old film “Obsession” are being distributed via special advertising inserts into newspapers through September. The film’s targeted distribution is focused on presidential battleground states, and the sponsor, the Clarion Fund a non-profit 501(c)(3), offers no public information on their sources of funding, board of directors, or membership.

“We firmly believe that everyone has a right to an opinion. But when a cynical attempt is made to influence our nation’s presidential election by stoking fear of one religious group we believe the media along with public officials, such as the Federal Election Commission, must establish who is trying to influence our politics through religious bigotry. And, if these individuals are indeed propagating Islamophobia to influence our election, we should establish this well before, not after, the election.”

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.