Rabbi Jack Moline, President of Interfaith Alliance, released the following statement:

“The bigotry and violence on display in Charlottesville, Virginia must be denounced by all political leaders in no uncertain terms. It’s unthinkable that in 2017 we would see crowds of torch-wielding white supremacists and neo-Nazis proudly displaying their swastikas and Confederate flags on the University of Virginia campus.

“President Trump’s 2016 campaign fanned the flames of racial and religious bigotry. While running for office, and now as president, he has regularly embraced figures and policies beloved by the extreme right. Today’s tragic events, in which three people were killed and others were seriously injured, highlight the urgent need for President Trump to formally and forcefully disavow white supremacy. His remarks thus far are woefully inadequate.

“Every act of bigotry against innocent Americans demands swift and unequivocal condemnation from the president. Every minute of delay is further encouragement of conduct that makes America lesser. Please prove your critics wrong, Mr. President. Now is the time to show moral courage by standing up to bigotry and hate.”


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.