Interfaith Alliance Expresses Condolences to Victims of Hate Crimes,
Reflects on Need to Fight Intolerance

WASHINGTON, D.C. — In the aftermath of a trend of heinous hate crimes targeting religious minorities, mainly in New York against the Orthodox Jewish community, Rabbi Jack Moline, president of Interfaith Alliance, offered comfort and sympathy to those targeted and reflected on the American values of inclusivity and tolerance toward all groups:

“Over the past several days, I have offered comfort to those who have been attacked seemingly on the basis of who they are. By my words, actions, and prayers, I hope to convey utmost condolences to the many families stricken with fear and uncertainty in what should be a tolerant country and a peaceful time of year.

“This year, we have seen a rise in hate crimes against religious minorities — especially targeting those who are most visibly practicing, from hijabi Muslims to Chasidic Jews. In this volatile time, the distinctiveness of observant Jewish apparel or symbols outside of a church are enough to make vulnerable those seeking to worship in their desired ways. It is a sad admittance that even in 2019, visibility makes people of faith and communities of color clear targets for those committing hate crimes, identified first by appearance and only later by the content of character. This is always the way of bigotry, racism, and hatred.

“There were more anti-Semitic attacks in New York during Hanukkah than there were candles to light on the menorah. This should appall both people of faith and people of no faith, Jews and non-Jews. We cannot forget that the measure of genuine American values is inclusivity: all people are created equal. Intolerance is unacceptable, and we must fight every day the trend of separating groups, growing tribalism, and unequal treatment under the law.

“Finally, we applaud those leaders and members of faith, civil rights, and other communities who have expressed solidarity with those who have suffered, and hope that they are indicative of a groundswell among national and local government leaders as well. The solution to this violence will not be simple, but it must be sought.”

If you are interested in speaking with Rabbi Jack Moline further, please reach out to Sarah Clements at sclements@westendstrategy.com.

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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.