To Be Silent Right Now is To Be Silent in the Face of Racism

For Immediate Release Contact: Shannon Craig Straw, West End Strategy Team, 202-776-7700, scstraw@westendstrategy.com

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
June 1, 2020

CONTACT
Manisha Sunil, West End Strategy Team
msunil@westendstrategy.com; Phone: (202) 417-0171 

Interfaith Alliance: To Be Silent Right Now is To Be Silent in the Face of Racism

WASHINGTON — In light of escalating protests surrounding police violence and systemic racism in this country, Rabbi Jack Moline, president of Interfaith Alliance, released the following statement:

“What we are facing today is a pivotal moment for our nation. The very real pain of Black Americans has been laid bare through the outrage around the deaths of George Floyd, Breonna Taylor, Ahmaud Arbery and so many others. Each of us has a choice: to sit back and allow things to remain the same, or to act courageously and demand a justice system that truly values Black lives. 

“Interfaith Alliance chooses courage. As a multiracial, multicultural organization representing those of all faiths and none, it is crucial to our work that we actively support systemic change and work toward a more inclusive, more just future. We join in solidarity with the Black activists mobilizing against police violence and demanding an end to the racism deeply ingrained in far too many of our institutions. 

“To be silent right now is to be silent in the face of racism. Every one of us – and especially those who benefit from white privilege – has a moral responsibility to listen to and show up for Black Americans. This means calling out injustice where we see it, supporting organizations and campaigns helmed by Black leaders, and electing champions of racial justice. 

“We face twin challenges. When it comes to COVID-19, be reticent. Stay home as much as you can and limit opportunities for infection. But when it comes to fighting racism in this country, I ask you to be anything but reticent. In fact, I ask you to be bold.” 

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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.