FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
August 28, 2020
CONTACT
Manisha Sunil, West End Strategy Team
msunil@westendstrategy.com; Phone: 202-417-0171
RNC 2020 Illustrated that Religious Right “seeks to dismantle, not protect, true religious freedom”
WASHINGTON — Last night, the Republican National Convention wrapped up after four nights that further highlighted the impact of the Religious Right on the Trump administration – and vice versa. In response, Katy Joseph, director of policy & advocacy for Interfaith Alliance, released the following statement:
“A hallmark of the Trump campaign and administration is its weaponization of faith for political gain. The Religious Right – of which several notable RNC speakers were drawn – has long used religious freedom as a shield for bigotry, blending American history and religious conviction in service of a Christian nationalist agenda.
“From blatant attacks on transgender students by Cissie Graham Lynch, to Vice President Pence’s remarks intertwining Biblical scripture and American identity, to repeated attacks on the faithfulness of anyone who disagrees with the administration, it is abundantly clear that this a movement seeks to dismantle, not protect, true religious freedom for those of all faiths and none.
“In America, we celebrate the diversity of our communities, including in faiths and philosophies. We cherish democracy, and with that the right of all Americans to believe and practice as we choose. And when we see political players – regardless of party – jeopardizing these tenets, we must lift our voices in protest and raise our sights toward a more just country for all of us.”
If you are interested in speaking with Katy further, please contact Manisha Sunil at msunil@westendstrategy.com or 202-417-0171.
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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.