Date: September 11, 2014/13th Anniversary of 9/11/01
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
On the 13th Anniversary of the 9/11 attacks, the following statement from Jewish and Muslim and other diverse American organizations responds to the increase in violence and oppression around the world, especially targeting minority populations. We grieve for the victims on all sides, especially civilians caught up in war, and pray for the healing of the many seriously injured.
While inequalities and other injustices understandably result in grievances, we call for peaceful problem solving and dialogue instead of mutual demonization and escalation. To support the process of mutual understanding, we affirm the role of religious, cultural and social groups to continue to build relationships, engage in honest dialogue, and demand that governments follow moral and humanitarian policies that treat all residents with respect, acknowledge equal rights, and build a sustainable future.
Against Violence and Terror;
For Peaceful Conflict Management and Dialogue
We, the undersigned Jewish and Muslim and other diverse American organizations, join in affirming our opposition to:
• the escalating cycle of violence and terror around the world
• the compulsive imposition of religious affiliation and practice on others
• the denial of basic human rights to religious/ethnic minorities
• the particular abuse of armed power in the service of intimidation, domination, or subjugation
• the distortion and misuse of religious commitments to threaten or coerce others
In the name of all religions of compassion and justice, we join in standing for:
• all efforts to bring parties in conflict together for constructive engagement and dialogue
• effective diplomacy, both between governmental representatives and extra-governmental bodies, as well as between citizens on the ground
• unwavering commitment to preserving and enhancing the life of all peoples in all regions • drawing on and amplifying the most generous and humane teachings of all faith traditions
• a “Third Way” approach, which always seeks non-violence and positive discourse, and stands for the ultimate kinship of all human beings.
Initial Signatory Organizations:
Holocaust, Genocide, and Interfaith Education Center,Manhattan College
Interfaith Center of New York
Interfaith Council of Flushing, NY
Islamic Center of Long Island
Islamic Circle of North America
Jamaica Muslim Center, Queens, NY
Muslim Community of Nassau County
Muslim Consultative Network
Muslim Peace Fellowship
Muslim Progressive Traditionalist Alliance
Muslims for Progressive Values
New Israel Fund NY/TriState
Nusantara Foundation
Partners for Progressive Israel Tanenbaum Center for Interreligious Understanding
T’ruah: A Rabbinic Call for Human Rights
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION: P. Adem Carroll (646) 251 0402 iamourhaj@aol.com Rabbi Simkha Y. Weintraub 646-296-4226 syweintraub@gmail.com
