
Interfaith Alliance was one of more than 200 organizations that signed a statement opposing legislation allowing the Secretary of Treasury the ability to accuse any nonprofit of being a “terrorist supporting organization” without basic due process.
“Charities that feed the hungry, churches and faith communities that comfort the grieving, veterans’ groups that care for our heroes, and countless other service providing organizations are at risk today because of this legislation.
“Nonprofits are on the front lines of meeting every community need. Instead of supporting those who serve our neighbors, this bill would hand any president’s administration the power to cast them as potential enemies of the state if they happen to disagree with their political agenda. This could deal a local nonprofit a potentially fatal blow with no guarantee of due process for the accused nonprofit. Whether it’s an organization providing health care in a disaster, a small rural church, or a local food bank, no organization is safe if this becomes law.
“This will not keep Americans safe from terrorism. No President should have the power this bill provides to punish their political opponents.
“We oppose this weaponization of the federal government and the House must remove this provision.”

Just days ago, on Tuesday, November 4, I joined a determined group of faith leaders and advocates from diverse faith traditions at the United States Senate to deliver a faith letter carrying an urgent appeal: hold the line. Do not reopen the government without protecting the essential benefits people need to survive.

Interfaith Alliance, together with major religious organizations committed to religious freedom and education, has submitted a formal comment to the U.S. Department of Education opposing the proposed priority and definitions on promoting patriotic education.