Philadelphia, PA (July 13, 2024) — POWER Interfaith, a network of more than 200 congregations throughout Pennsylvania, and statewide organizing force for economic and racial justice on a livable planet, condemns all forms of violence, including the horrific attack at the recent rally in Butler, Pennsylvania.
POWER Interfaith has always believed in the power of peaceful protest and the free expression of views as means for change. We urge all to reject violence and embrace dialogue and understanding. Open communication and a willingness to listen are the cornerstones of a healthy democracy.
“Violence is a symptom of a deeper pathology,” emphasizes Rev. Dr. Gregory Edwards, Interim Executive Director at POWER Interfaith. “As a believer in, and practitioner of non-violent direct action, and mentee of the Late James Lawson, I unequivocally know that violence, directed at any person, regardless of political affiliation, is never the answer, and that all of its forms is never a valid or legitimate response to any situation.”
We, as a nation, have a long and tragic history of resorting to violence to solve problems, from the January 6th uprising to the assassinations of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., President John F. Kennedy, and Senator Robert Kennedy. These acts not only shatter lives but also set back the progress of our nation.
Today and always, we reaffirm our unwavering commitment to interfaith harmony, compassion, and understanding. Let us, across faiths and backgrounds, come together at this moment. Let our shared humanity be the bridge that connects us, and let our collective voice be a powerful call for peace. We must choose a different path, a path paved with respect, empathy, and the unwavering belief in the power of peace.
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POWER Interfaith believes that faith can bring us together more than it can divide us and that our varied faith traditions call on us to act to make our communities and our nation better places to live. The organization’s Roadmap for Justice platform outlines how to address key issues for a prosperous Pennsylvania. More about POWER Interfaith at www.powerinterfaith.org.
