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AJC Concerned by Congressman's Pronouncements


From "Ari Gordon" <gordona@ajc.org> (by way of George Conklin <gconklin@igc.org>)
Date Sat, 06 Jan 2007 13:52:18 -0800

AJC Concerned by Congressman's Pronouncements

December 22, 2006 - New York - The American Jewish Committee, in a letter to Representative Virgil H. Goode, expressed its deep concern over his recent characterizations of Representative-elect Keith Ellison's decision to use the Koran when taking the private, ceremonial oath of office. As an organization with a long history of promoting and defending religious liberty for all people, AJC urged Representative Goode to remember "that America is built upon a celebration of diversity and mutual respect."

AJC stressed in the letter that Mr. Ellison's election as the first Muslim Member of Congress and his decision to use the Koran at his swearing-in ceremony is "not only his personal right, but is a demonstration of the fundamental values of the United States."

On the first day of the 110th Congress, all representatives will take the oath of office, a declaration without use of religious texts. The personal swearing-in ceremony that follows has long been an accepted custom in American political life.

In accordance with their own religious beliefs, many politicians have elected to use the Hebrew Bible, Christian Scriptures, or no holy text at all for these rituals. The Constitution protects the right of public servants and all Americans to religious liberty, and Mr. Ellison's decision is a testament to religious pluralism.

"The United States is blessed with a broad array of faith communities," said the AJC letter. "As a nation of immigrants, history has amply demonstrated our differences add to the richness of America and make us stronger."

Ari M. Gordon Department of Interreligious Affairs American Jewish Committee 165 E56th St. New York, NY 10022 (212) 751-4000 x266 www.ajc.org www.engagingamerica.org


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