NEW YORK – United Women in Faith, the nation’s largest denominational organization for women, today expressed concern regarding the early policy actions of the new administration.
“We are deeply troubled by the administration’s policy decisions, including the systemic rollback of civil rights protections, especially for communities of color, withdrawal from the Paris Climate Agreement, expulsion of immigrants and proposals to dismantle organizations like USAID, which provide essential humanitarian aid to vulnerable populations globally. Such policies threaten the well-being of individuals and communities that depend on the support of these programs.
“As an organization rooted in faith and committed to justice, we hold that every individual, regardless of immigration status, gender, class, race, religion, sexuality, or location, is made in the image of God and deserves dignity, care, and respect (Genesis 1:27). These policies contradict our belief in the fundamental rights and inherent worth of all people.
“We believe that government has a sacred responsibility to protect its people and those most vulnerable in society. Instead, we are witnessing policies that foster division and disproportionately harm those who are already marginalized, including women, children, immigrants, indigenous peoples, queer communities and communities of color. As Scripture teaches, ‘Let justice roll on like a river, righteousness like a never-failing stream!’ (Amos 5:24). Justice and righteousness should guide all of our national policies, ensuring that they serve the common good.
“The President’s recent foreign policy comments also raise serious concerns. We are deeply disturbed at the proposed expulsion of more than 2 million Palestinians from their homeland in Gaza that [is tantamount to ethnic cleansing and] violates international and humanitarian law. As an organization that values the pursuit of peace and reconciliation, we urge our leaders should respect international law and act with wisdom and caution in all matters of foreign policy.
“We are deeply disturbed by the attempt to roll back basic civil rights protections for students, to increase the criminalization of communities of color and to undo gains made in advancing climate justice. As United Women in Faith, we’re committed to ensuring that the long-term interests of women, children and youth are central. “United Women in Faith calls on our nation’s leaders to place greater emphasis on policies that promote justice, equity, and reconciliation. We urge all elected officials to uphold human rights and the dignity for all of God’s creation and work toward the common good of all people, regardless of their background or political views. The health of our nation depends on a commitment to fair and just policies that reflect the values we hold dear as a society.”
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