Auburn Seminary condemns new anti-Muslim executive order
For Immediate Release
March 6, 2017
Contact: Aimee Thunberg, [email protected]
Auburn Seminary condemns new anti-Muslim executive order
Calls on faith leaders to oppose Islamophobia in all forms
New York — Today, President Trump signed an executive order to prevent immigrants from six Muslim-majority countries from entering the United States and halted the entry of all refugees for 120 days. Auburn Seminary President Rev. Dr. Katharine R. Henderson issued the following statement:
“Today President Trump, under the guise of national safety, has once again discriminated against Muslims and inflamed the false narrative that this country is at war with a religion. The president’s relentless focus on Muslim-majority countries continues to be a violation of the religious liberty our country is built upon and a rejection of the commitment of its founders to welcome people of all faiths to America.
“To halt refugees, many of whom are fleeing persecution and war in their home countries, is unconscionable and does not reflect the values that underpin the foundation of our country. No nation should target the most vulnerable of populations, especially those seeking safety and shelter. By welcome people of all faith traditions (and no traditions), we make our country more vibrant, compassionate, and loving.
“Across the country, we have seen a dramatic spike in Islamophobia, including a rise in hate speech, vandalism, and fires at mosques across the nation. The president’s first executive order emboldened those who seek to harm and harass our Muslim brothers and sisters. Continuing to target Muslim-majority countries does not increase the safety of the United States and sends a signal to extremists that it is safe to target immigrants, refugees, and people of color in their communities.
“The president’s new order continues to stigmatize Muslim communities in the the United States and abroad. Auburn stands in solidarity with our immigrant sisters and brothers around the globe and will continue to mobilize faith leaders working to protect the humanity of immigrants and refugees.”
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