Washington, D.C. – Following President Obama’s oval office address to the American people, Interfaith Alliance Executive Director Rabbi Jack Moline praised the President for providing a path forward and for rejecting the continued demonization of the Muslim community.  

“President Obama delivered an important message to the American people tonight. He made clear the serious threat we face from violent extremism and he laid out a path to face those who threaten us. Equally important was the President’s willingness to tell the American people that Islam itself is not the threat. I have been proud to work with members of the American Muslim community who work day in and day out to combat violent extremism. As the President said, they are an important part of the fight against terrorism.”

“Sadly, far too many of our political leaders have chosen to demonize the Muslim community to score cheap political points. Their words only serve as a recruitment tool to our enemies. Interfaith Alliance stands with the President in believing the way through this crisis is to embrace our values of religious freedom, inclusion and engagement, not abandon them”

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.