FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
July 16, 2020

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

Pompeo’s Definition of ‘Unalienable Rights’ Only Serves a Christian Nationalist Agenda

WASHINGTON — Today, the Commission on Unalienable Rights, created by Secretary of State Mike Pompeo, unveiled its long-anticipated report presenting a dangerous and limited view of international human rights, heavily influenced by a Christian nationalist agenda. In response, Rabbi Jack Moline, president of Interfaith Alliance, released the following statement:

Today’s report, released by the Commission on Unalienable Rights, is another attempt to redefine American society by presenting a dangerous alternative vision of international human rights and our nation’s role within the global community.

Sec. Pompeo’s remarks – and the project in its entirety – blend American history and religious conviction in service of a Christian nationalist agenda at home and abroad. Today, he recast our founding principles as “rooted in a deeply biblical idea,” confusing the personal faith of certain founders with an abiding national religious identity. This worldview is shared by other members of the Commission who have worked closely with far-right groups to undermine LGBTQ+ rights, reproductive healthcare access, and the rights of religious minorities.

Despite Sec. Pompeo’s efforts to claim otherwise, human rights are not a zero-sum game. Protecting those under threat, simply because of who they are or how they worship, does not deprive others of dignity. The State Department, and the federal government writ large, has an obligation to stand on the side of peace and justice – to protect people of all faiths and of none and combat bigotry in all its forms. This commission, however, only pulls us farther from that goal.”

To speak with Rabbi Moline further, please contact Manisha Sunil at msunil@westendstrategy.com or (202) 417-0171.

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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.