Washington, DC – Interfaith Alliance executive director, Rabbi Jack Moline, condemned both a shooting that took place in Garland Texas yesterday and the event that seems to have provoked it.
“The events that transpired in Garland, Texas represent a tragic breakdown of our democratic values. The attempted shooting has no justification – not even the reprehensible event that seems to be its intended target. Violence as a response to insult is indefensible. The motives of the two gunmen killed at an anti-Islam event yesterday are still under investigation. However, regardless of their intent, we reject their use violence.
“The so-called ‘Muslim Art Exhibit’ where the shooting took place is an event deserving of criticism even absent yesterday’s violence. Pamela Geller, the exhibit’s sponsor, seeks to hide provocation behind the First Amendment. This competition, which rewarded disrespect with cash, may be legal, but it is certainly not worthy of the great tradition of free-speech advocacy in America. Unfortunately, this was not her organization’s first attempt to incite radical elements in society, and this time, sadly, it would appear some took the bait.
“Our thoughts and prayers are with the security guard who was injured last night and with the community that was threatened. We pray as well for peace and compassion in the wake of this tragedy – just as violence is the wrong response to hate, more hate is the wrong response to violence.”
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.