United Methodists were among the faith leaders nationwide to condemn the reported comments of President Donald Trump demeaning immigrants from Haiti, African nations and others "shithole countries." Following are examples of their comments.
From the General Commission on Religion and Race:
The General Commission on Religion and Race (GCORR) condemns in the strongest terms the racist rhetoric of U.S. President Donald Trump. His actions remind us that the work of disrupting and dismantling personal and systemic racism is desperately needed in the world today.
The hurt and outrage being felt all over the world is justified. It is encouraging to witness the counter-revolution of love and justice that is growing as a result. But the work on anti-racism and overturning oppression of all kinds is slow and long. Much longer than the emotions of hurt and anger can sustain.
For those who are seeking a resource to assist your congregations in growing in faith and witness at a time when hate and division is so prevalent, we lift up From Talk About White Privilege to Action: Next Steps on the Anti-Racism Journey for your consideration. This resource can assist your Sunday school or small group to move from talking about race and racism to living into the work of anti-racism and racial justice. We also encourage you to use Human Relations Day Sunday as an opportunity for dialogue and action.
In the coming week, GCORR will be offering additional resources to support leaders who are seeking ways to engage their congregations and communities in dialogue and action for the long haul. Our commitment is to provide resources that challenge and equip leaders to be a relevant and credible witness to the love of God for all people.
Our prayers are with all of the courageous people who stand against hate and oppression and with those who are still finding their voice. May the God of the peaceable realm continue to call us forth into action.
Bishop Michael McKee, Dallas Area (North Texas Conference) of The United Methodist Church, Jan. 12, 2018: "Now is the time when we can no longer be silent in the face of racist rhetoric coming from our political leaders. Leaders of both political parties can no longer remain silent when bigoted words are said in their presence."
Bishop Cynthia Fierro Harvey, Lousiana Area of The United Methodist Church via Facebook:
As children of God, we have come to know that diversity and difference is something that is to be embraced and, in many ways, sought after. I have had the privilege to work, worship and serve in Haiti, in many countries throughout Africa and many other places in between. In each and every instance, I have met amazing people and have made life-long friends. I am not alone. Faithful Louisiana United Methodists have developed the same profound life-changing relationships with people around the world through devoted mission support. The United Methodist Church’s global presence is transforming people and places through the commitment of faithful and exceptional leaders. Jesus calls us to follow him and when we do, we will likely find ourselves on the margins, alongside extraordinary people that change us forever. I am one of those who has been changed and for that I am extraordinarily thankful!"
Bishop Elaine J.W. Stanovsky of the Greater Northwest Episcopal Area issued a personal column, "Dignity and Degradation," in which she contrasted President Trump's proclamation of Martin Luther King Day on Jan. 12 with his racist comments of the day before. She recounted her own positive experiences with missions in Haiti and Africa and concluded by urging United Methodists to participate in MLK Day events and stand up to racist attitudes.
The United Methodist Council of Bishops issued a formal statement condemning the presidents' remarks.
WASHINGTON, D.C. - Bishop Bruce R. Ough, president of the United Methodist Council of Bishops, issued a statement today on behalf of the Council concerning remarks reported to have been made by President Donald Trump regarding immigrants. The statement follows:
"We are appalled by the offensive, disgusting words attributed to President Donald Trump who is said to have referred to immigrants from African countries and Haiti, and the countries themselves, in an insulting and derogative manner. According to various media accounts, President Trump made the remarks during a White House discussion with lawmakers on immigration.
"As reported, President Trump’s words are not only offensive and harmful, they are racist.
We call upon all Christians, especially United Methodists, to condemn this characterization and further call for President Trump to apologize.
"As United Methodists, we cherish our brothers and sisters from all parts of the world and we believe that God loves all creation regardless of where they live or where they come from. As leaders of our global United Methodist Church, we are sickened by such uncouth language from the leader of a nation that was founded by immigrants and serves as a beacon to the world’s “huddled masses longing to be free.”
"Thousands of our clergy, laity and other highly skilled, productive citizens are from places President Trump has defamed with his comments. The fact that he also insists the United States should consider more immigrants from Europe and Asia demonstrates the racist character of his comments. This is a direct contradiction of God’s love for all people. Further, these comments on the eve of celebrating Martin Luther King Day belies Dr. King’s witness and the United States’ ongoing battle against racism.
"We just celebrated the birth of Jesus Christ, whose parents during his infancy, had to flee to Africa to escape from the wrath of King Herod. Millions of immigrants across the globe are running away from such despicable and life-threatening events. Hence, we have the Christian duty to be supportive of them as they flee political, cultural and social dangers in their native homes.
"We will not stand by and allow our brothers and sisters to be maligned in such a crude manner. We call on all United Methodists, all people of faith, and the political leadership of the United States to speak up and speak against such demeaning and racist comments.
"Christ reminds us that it is by love that they will know that we are Christians. Let’s demonstrate that love for all of God’s people by saying no to racism; no to discrimination and no to bigotry."