WASHINGTON – Today, Interfaith Alliance joined religious and civil rights organizations in welcoming the introduction of the Do No Harm Act in the House of Representatives by Rep. Joseph Kennedy III (D – MA) and Rep. Bobby Scott (D – VA). The bill is a response to so-called religious freedom bills that have advanced in a number of states and would allow discrimination on the basis of religion. Following the introduction of this legislation, Rabbi Jack Moline, president of Interfaith Alliance, released this statement:
“The religious freedom promised by the Constitution, the religious freedom envisioned by our Founders, is one where every person’s faith is protected and no one’s faith is used to subjugate or harm others. For years the Religious Right has tried to force legislation through Congress and state legislatures designed to turn religious freedom into a weapon used against religious minorities, people of color, women, children and the LGBT community. The Do No Harm act is a critical first step toward counteracting that misguided campaign.
“I am grateful to Rep. Kennedy and Rep. Scott for their continued leadership on this issue and look forward to working with them and members of Congress of both parties as we continue to find the proper balance in safeguarding the religious freedom of all.”
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.