With dramatic unanimity the sacred scriptures of diverse religious traditions vehemently condemn hate. Hate is neither a religious nor an American value. These are among the reasons why Interfaith Alliance today celebrates the passage of substantive hate crimes prevention legislation. Not only will this new law provide much-needed help for law enforcement officials and offer long-sought-for protection to vulnerable groups threatened by hate-motivated violence, it will offer a modicum of comfort to all who have lost loved ones because of hate crimes. Passage of this hate crime legislation represents a civil act consistent with the moral foundations of our nation and all of the religious traditions which are at home within it.
Fidelity to the prophetic core of our religions and our American values means that we cannot condemn hate, only to follow it with passivity in the face of behavior that destroys the lives of any group of our fellow citizens. For over a decade, Interfaith Alliance has fought tirelessly to secure the crucial protections provided in this legislation. We urge President Obama to sign the act into law without delay.
To be sure, no law alone can remove hatred from our midst. But in an
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.