WASHINGTON – Responding to the Vice President’s assertion at Liberty University that those following what he considers “traditional Christianity” will be ridiculed, Rabbi Jack Moline, president of Interfaith Alliance, reminded the Vice President of what endangered religious freedom actually is and that there is no protection from theological disagreement:
“We take seriously the claim that religious freedom is in any way being compromised. However, the Vice President is confusing disagreement with his personal beliefs and interpretation of his scripture with a violation of his First Amendment rights.
“Interfaith Alliance will be one of the first to speak up on his behalf should his movements ever be restricted because of his faith as it has for Muslims through Trump’s Muslim Ban, his ability to wear religious garb be prohibited as it has for Sikhs who wear kirpans, or he’s denied service or health care because of someone else’s religious beliefs.
“We’ll also be there when his sense of safety is shattered after a hate-fueled attack on members of his faith community as those in Jewish, Muslim, Sikh and African American Christian communities across the country have experienced shootings, arson and violent protests.
“Instead he conflates disagreements with infringements and ignores the rich diversity of faith in this country, including in his own chosen faith of Christianity. The Vice President should revisit the Constitution and the oath he took to uphold it.
“Our Constitution does not protect a believer from theological disagreements or enable elected officials to legislate their core tenants of faith at the expense of others. Our Constitution protects the rights of all Americans to profess the faith – or no faith – of their choice, and to practice it.”
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.