Brookline Interfaith Clergy Association

A Statement from the Brookline Clergy Association on the State of Political Discourse . The separation of church and state is an important value in American society. For this reason, religious leaders and institutions generally avoid becoming embroiled in solely political matters. When, however, the political conversation moves beyond the confines of what is civil into open hostility, then it is becomes necessary and urgent for religious leaders to respond. There is a worrying trend this election year. Political speech has become increasingly intolerant and even in some cases marked by calls for violence. Racism, bigotry, misogyny, and religious prejudice should not become common currency in U.S. politics. Many Americans are expressing dissatisfaction with government. But a desire to see change must not become an excuse for intolerance, for blaming immigrants or religious minorities for the nation’s problems. Moving beyond political correctness should never mean leaving behind com...