Official Statement on the Use of Force Against U.S. Residents

As a faith-based organization, our work is grounded in a belief that we are all children of God, and, as such, every human life is of equal worth. This religious principle is not ours alone and is at the core of our identity as a nation. We have watched with grave concern as the current administration increasingly exhibits coordinated enmity toward citizens, using dehumanizing language and even calling for violence against those who express opposition to its agenda.

We call upon all Americans to cast out fear, replacing it with perfect love and a commitment to seek out peaceful solutions. We must counter inflammatory narratives and language about our neighbors and fellow citizens. The Constitution guarantees each of us a set of inalienable rights — including the right to free speech and protest — that cannot be set aside to further a political agenda. The federal government exists to protect and uphold those rights. 

We reaffirm that peacemaking is the path forward. It demands great tolerance for people and none for injustice. As citizens, we must refuse to accept injustice while also practicing great compassion for everyone in our community. We encourage everyone to stand against unconstitutional, dehumanizing, and divisive actions with courage, and to work together toward a more just, peaceful, and humane world.