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Interfaith Leaders Criticize House Hearings On Radicalization of Muslims

By Howard M. Friedman

Twenty-six religious leaders-- Christian, Jewish, Muslim and Sikh-- yesterday issued a statement (full text) criticizing U.S. Rep. Peter King's hearing on the radicalization of American Muslims. The statement reads in part:

We urge the members of our government as well as citizens of good will to refrain from passing judgment on religious or faith groups based on the actions of the few who pervert their spiritual traditions through acts of violence and hostile rhetoric. We believe that politicians, cultural figures and members of the media are never justified in exploiting religious differences in order to advance ideological or political aims. Our leaders in Congress and the Administration must stand up and speak out against these hearings ? hearings that perpetuate misrepresentations and harm our country rather than lead it to greater awareness and a strengthened citizenry.

The interfaith coalition-- calling themselves "Shoulder to Shoulder" also held a press conference yesterday to criticize the hearings. (Transcript of press conference.)

Full post as published by Religion Clause on March 11, 2011 (boomark / email).