Keep Partisan Politics Out of Houses of Worship

From Americans United for Separation of Church and State (https://www.au.org/:

These last two weeks we have seen both major political parties make their pitch to voters. The rhetoric inevitably heats up at this point in the campaign, but I was particularly alarmed at Donald Trump’s call for the repeal of the restrictions on tax-exempt religious organizations getting involved in politics, which have been in place since 1954.

Keeping our houses of worship free of partisan politics is a hallmark of religious freedom in the United States and one that we must maintain so that our most sacred spaces remain sacred.

So, here are some action steps you and your congregation can take to ensure religious freedom for all:

• Sign the petition urging the IRS to keep partisan politics out of houses of worship!
• Email me (mefford@au.org) if you know of faith leaders in your area who want to participate in a training on Keeping Sacred Spaced Sacred!  This is a one hour facilitated conversation where we help participants fully understand what constitutes violations of the IRS tax code.  It’s also a chance to imagine and envision what a faithful and constructive public engagement looks like and how faith communities can engage in advocacy and organizing without causing others harm. Our fall dates are already filling up, so let me know soon if you’d like to set up a training!
• Stay tuned for information about a Week of Action this fall! Each day for a week, we will share inspirational writings and actions, as well as a time for all of us to gather via phone to talk about the importance of religious freedom for all people, especially religious minorities. More information is coming, so stay tuned!
• Share this information widely with your ministerial networks! Our movement to maintain religious freedom is only as strong as we are connected with all who care so share freely!

Now that we are full-on in the midst of the campaign season, it is vital that faith communities speak out for freedom for all, especially religious minorities, and that we call for and model the necessary boundaries that keep our sacred spaces sacred.