Interfaith Alliance Condemns Horrific Attack on Islamic Center of San Diego, Stresses Need to Confront Anti-Muslim Bigotry

Interfaith Alliance,  a leading national advocate for religious freedom and multi-faith democracy, is horrified and deeply saddened by Monday’s attack on the Islamic Center of San Diego, in which gunmen killed 3 people – an appalling attack on a house of worship which is officially being treated and investigated as a hate crime. 

Rev. Paul Brandeis Raushenbush, President and CEO of Interfaith Alliance, released the following statement: 

“Our hearts break for the Islamic Center of San Diego, the victims and families impacted by this act of violence, and Muslims everywhere as they prepare to celebrate Eid al-Adha later this month.

All Americans have a right to worship and practice their faith safely, without intimidation or fear of violence. We know that attacks on the religious freedom of Muslim Americans are on the rise in this country. The Institute for Social Policy and Understanding has found a significant increase just in the past few years, including among young people – and that over 60 percent of American Muslims report facing discrimination due to their religion. Just in the past few months we have also seen appalling and dehumanizing anti-Muslim bigotry and discrimination spouted by prominent elected officials. Anti-Muslim hate, like all forms of hate targeting people on the basis of their beliefs and identities, is unacceptable. 

While this horrific shooting is still being investigated, it is incumbent on all of us – including all people of faith – to denounce and work against any and all hate against the Muslim members of our communities. We must also demand greater public funding for security to protect mosques and all houses of worship, and for initiatives designed to prevent hate crimes. Through solidarity and partnership, we can build a vibrant multi-faith democracy in which all people are safe to worship and thrive.”

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‍Interfaith Alliance and Interfaith Alliance Foundation are 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.

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