Interfaith Alliance

Washington, D.C. – On this Sunday’s “State of Belief,” The Interfaith Alliance Foundation’s show on Air America Radio, Rev. Dr. C. Welton Gaddy speaks with House Ways and Means Committee Chairman, Rep. Charlie Rangel.  The 19-term Democrat from New York is the author of a memoir, entitled …And I Haven’t Had a Bad Day Since: From the Streets of Harlem to the Halls of Congress.  Rep. Rangel tells Welton about a life-threatening incident during the Korean War, where Rangel served in a segregated Army regiment.  When his regiment was surrounded by Chinese soldiers along the Yalu River, Rangel said: “If Jesus would even consider sparing me, he would have no problems with Charlie Rangel for ever and ever…And I haven’t had a bad day since.”

Rep. Rangel is also a strong advocate for religious pluralism.  He has introduced a resolution in Congress to create a National Week of Reflection and Tolerance.  Rep.  Rangel, who is Catholic, reminds listeners that Jesus was one of the earliest advocates for religious tolerance.  “Jesus tells people [morality] is how you treat the least among us, regardless of their religion.”

Also on the show: Rev. Oliver “Buzz” Thomas, author of 10 Things Your Minister Wants to Tell You, But Can’t Because He Needs the Job.

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.