Statement of Rev. Dr. C. Welton Gaddy on
The “No Mob Vote” ad in today’s New York Times
Washington, DC – Interfaith Alliance President Rev. Dr. C. Welton Gaddy issued the following statement today in response to the “No Mob Veto” ad in today’s New York Times. Signed by thirteen faith leaders, including some of the biggest names on the Religious Right, the ad condemns violence and intimidation against houses of worship, specifically in this case the Church of Latter Day Saints (LDS).
“I am pleased to see the newfound commitment of some of my friends on the right to fight against anti-religious bigotry and violence against houses of worship. These are principles that have been at the core of the Interfaith Alliance’s mission since its founding. “
“While I wholeheartedly disagree with the position of the LDS church on proposition 8, I agree with the signers of the ad that they have every right to their opinion. I do wonder if the signers will be willing to spend tens-of-thousands of dollars along with their prestige the next time a primarily gay congregation’s legitimacy is called in to question, or a mosque is targeted for harassment. “
“I invite the ad’s signers to prove me wrong. I invite them to encourage houses of worship across the country to engage in dialogue across the political spectrum. Not to proselytize, but to build understanding. Not to change theology, but to understand each other’s theological perspective. “
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Interfaith Alliance celebrates religious freedom by championing individual rights, promoting policies that protect both religion and democracy, and uniting diverse voices to challenge extremism. Founded in 1994, Interfaith Alliance has 185,000 members across the country from 75 faith traditions as well as those without a faith tradition. For more information visit www.interfaithalliance.org
Interfaith Alliance celebrates religious freedom by championing individual rights, promoting policies that protect both religion and democracy, and uniting diverse voices to challenge extremism. Founded in 1994, Interfaith Alliance brings together members from 75 faith traditions as well as those without a faith tradition to protect faith and freedom. For more information visit www.interfaithalliance.org.