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R O P E R L A U 2 0 0 1 A N N PeoplePeople ofof FaithFaith andand GoodGood WillWill RestoringRestoring HealthyHealthy DemocracyDemocracy Dear Friends:

Never have I been more proud of The Interfaith Alliance than I was this past year. September 11 was a horrific day in world history, one that will be remembered with sadness and anger for generations to come. But those of us in the daily practice of spiritual leadership know, too, that we have a unique obligation in such times. The men and women of The Interfaith Alliance and The Interfaith Alliance Foundation are not all clergy; indeed, mine is the only ordination in our national office when our board members are not in town. Our staff reacted to the tragedy as would a pastor, imam, priest, or rabbi, reaching out to lend support and resources to those in pain, working to prevent anti-Muslim and anti-Sikh backlash and to help bring communities together. Our local Alliances and national boards sprang into action as well. Some scheduled unity events, some reached out to Muslims and Sikhs, and some met with political and religious leaders in an effort to gently guide them toward messages of inclusion. All demonstrated in word and deed the positive, healing role of religion in our society. Although we have grown and expanded our programs significantly since we were founded, we remain very much true to our original calling. We believe the nation and religion are healthiest when religion can express itself without fear of entanglement or encumbrance from the government. We have not wavered in our opposition to abuses or manipulation of religion for partisan political purpose – whether they come from the political right or left. In 2001, we saw dramatic examples of both the power of religion to divide and to hurt as well as to inspire and to heal. Though we sometimes saw the vocabulary of faith appropriated for partisan political purposes, from time to time, we also heard the prophetic voice of faith calling us to our better nature, urging us to feed the hungry and house the homeless. This year of sharp contrasts instructed, inspired, and challenged us. The tragedy of September 11 focused the public’s attention on issues related to the appropriate role of religion in public life. Indeed, we have redoubled our efforts to enable the people in our nation to better understand the proper relationship between religion and government. Gratitude abounds for all of you whose generous support has made our work possible. We are proud of what we accomplished in 2001, pleased to share with you information on our work during this important year, and eager for you to share in our pride even as you continue to share in support of the mission of this movement.

The Rev. Dr. C. Welton Gaddy, Executive Director Introduction

public life. But we also took on new and important roles, unique among Washington-based organizations: working to assist clergy around the nation in their post-attack pastoring, communicating a message of inclusion For the world, the nation, the and acceptance for true Islam, and religious community, and for The working to ensure the legislative Interfaith Alliance, 2001 was a year response to September 11 did not like no other. harm the liberties Americans hold As it did for all Americans, the year dear. divided into two distinct chapters: All of this activity – before and before September 11 and after. Before after September 11 – took place amid the horrible events of that world- important organizational growth and changing day, The Interfaith Alliance development. The Interfaith Alliance’s focused all its energies on defending membership grew significantly in the appropriate role of religion in the 2001, as did the capacity of its public policy sphere and ensuring the network of alliances across the nation. full spectrum of religious voices was Similarly, the organization began heard in policy debates. That entailed building its National Religious The Honorable David Dinkins and Sarah Weddington work on a number of high-profile Leaders Network, an assemblage of issues, including campaign finance religious leaders from around the reform, the Ashcroft nomination, and nation who add still more grassroots network of well-organized and well- a still unresolved struggle over the reach and provide rich religious funded organizations, for the “voice of administration’s plans to provide perspectives. religion,” as if people of faith in more federal dollars to religious In all its work in 2001, The America speak with a single, institutions as part of its “faith-based Interfaith Alliance and The Interfaith monolithic voice. The Interfaith initiative.” Alliance Foundation sought to bring Alliance proved otherwise in 2001, After the terrorist attacks, The diverse religious voices to the policy demonstrating, as it has in the past Interfaith Alliance (TIA) and its arena, so the full breadth and richness and will again in the future, the partner organization, The Interfaith of America’s faith communities could Religious Right cannot claim the Alliance Foundation (TIF), continued be appreciated. Too often political mantle of faith for their particular to defend religious liberty and leaders mistake the Religious Right political views alone. promote the proper role of religion in political movement, with its vast

“The church must be reminded that it is not the master or the servant of the state, but rather the conscience of the state. It must be the guide and the critic of the state and never its tool.” Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.

3

Mobilizing Faith Communities

America’s faith community offers a worship, thereby allowing for direct unique, prophetic vision to the nation, funding of religion. The proposal was one that is vital to the health of the a key element of candidate George W. American political process. Therefore, Bush’s message of “compassionate The Interfaith Alliance works to conservatism” during the 2000 mobilize communities of faith. Sadly, presidential campaign. because the Religious Right sometimes has the loudest and most expensive WELFARE REFORM AND megaphone, its arguments are CHARITABLE CHOICE mistakenly credited with being “the religious point of view.” The Interfaith In truth, the Clinton administra- Alliance knows Americans of faith do tion’s 1996 welfare overhaul had already not all march in lockstep and regularly ushered in the era of charitable choice. reminds political leaders of the rich But that administration took a far more diversity of thought and belief in the limited interpretation to the matter, faith community. essentially limiting funding to the same “Despite the spin and In 2001, that effort was particularly religious-affiliated institutions that had media attention devoted important, as a new administration always been permitted to apply for fed- to charitable choice sought to secure passage of “charitable eral funds. The Bush administration legislation, there remains choice” legislation which had made clear it had a much more aggres- a serious lack of profound and disturbing implications sive approach in mind. substantive information for religious institutions, as well as for Once in office, the new president and thus meaningful the appropriate and vital role of moved quickly to pursue the initia- debate on this issue religion in public life. tive, establishing a White House within houses of worship The heart of the president’s Office of Faith-Based and Community in this country.” proposal was a plan to shift Initiatives to craft his related legisla- The Rev. Dr. C. Welton Gaddy, government responsibility for tive proposals. Almost immediately, Executive Director, March 16, 2001, providing social services to houses of the initiative faltered. And for good Washington, DC

“Charitable Choice” in Practice

In June 2001, TIA Executive Director The Rev. Dr. C. Welton Gaddy, in partnership with TIA-Oklahoma City, participated in an Oklahoma City forum on charitable choice. Oklahoma was the first state in the nation to take advantage of the Bush administration’s newly relaxed standards for funding religious groups to provide social services under the 1996 federal welfare law. The state’s early organizations than another experience highlighted some of the religious organization. However, problems critics have warned about. what does that say about the Gaddy explained. recipients of this money? Why must “Here in Oklahoma, you have $100,000, which could have gone distributed $100,000 to an to social services, be used to cover evangelical Christian organization administrative costs? And, which named as the liaison between the non-Christian religions are likely to government office and various be willing to work with an religions. The rationale behind the organization whose historical action reflected wisdom – a purpose has been not to help them government office will have more do their work better but to convert difficulty dealing with religious them to Christian work?”

5 reason: what had been a winning both with legal and ethical issues, piece of Campaign rhetoric when from the perspective of the religious painted in broad strokes was a well- institutions affected. nettled thicket of complex issues when The guide touched on the full translated into public policy. range of concerns about charitable The administration’s apparent choice, issues emphasized by The intention was to minimize debate over Interfaith Alliance Executive Director the proposal’s very significant prob- The Rev. Dr. C. Welton Gaddy in his lems. But the vague “we’ll work out many speaking appearances on the the details later” promise was cold subject. Among them: the threat to comfort to many in the faith commu- constitutional separation of religion DEBATES ACROSS THE nity. The Interfaith Alliance led the and government; the unanswered COUNTRY effort to force a substantive discussion question of whether religious of the proposal’s implications. institutions would be held to The Interfaith Alliance Foundation In March, The Interfaith Alliance comparable regulatory standards for and the Baptist Joint Committee on Foundation released “Keeping the fire and safety, health and more; the Public Affairs distributed guides to Faith: The Promise of Cooperation, danger of employment discrimination 35,000 institutions across the land. “The Perils of Government Funding: by religious institutions receiving But the campaign was only just begin- A Guide for Houses of Worship.” A federal funds; the challenge to the ning. There followed a series of collaboration with the Baptist Joint missional integrity of the religious TIA-sponsored forums around the Committee on Public Affairs, the institution; the problem of country – in Cincinnati, Ohio; Ocala, resource guide offers advice to competition among religious groups Florida; Lexington, Kentucky; religious institutions about whether for limited dollars; concerns about Waterbury, Connecticut; Oklahoma and how to accept public funds or government regulators choosing to City and Tulsa, Oklahoma; St. Louis, otherwise cooperate with the fund one religious entity over another; Missouri, and in the Northern government. Consistent with The and the threat that religious Virginia suburbs of Washington, D.C. Interfaith Alliance Foundation’s roots, institutions accepting government Local Interfaith Alliances sponsored the publication did more than present funding might sacrifice their many of these events. a legal analysis of the matter. Noting “prophetic voice” on important policy In addition, The Interfaith Alliance that “not everything that is legal is matters of the day. joined forces with a host of other right,” “Keeping the Faith” grappled religious organizations in launching a grassroots education campaign to engage diverse faith and civic leaders in debate over President Bush’s faith-based proposals, as well as the larger issue of how best to serve those in need. The Interfaith Alliance also published a guide for its local Alliances, “Confronting the Office of Faith-Based and Community Initiatives.” Aimed at encouraging Alliances to create thoughtful discussion about the issue, the guide includes practical tips on issues to stress, types of forums to consider, media outreach efforts on the issue, and other important information. The series of initiatives by The Interfaith Alliance and its allies succeeded in slowing the administration’s rush to adopt new standards for funding faith-based institutions, making way for a more thorough dialogue about the proposal’s implications. By the end of Massachusetts Interfaith Alliance holds the Vigil Against Hate 2001, Boston, MA. 2001, the fate of the proposal Picture courtesy of Marilyn Humphries. remained uncertain, and the subject looms large on The Interfaith Alliance’s 2002 agenda. 6 Religious Affiliations of Supporters

African Methodist Episcopal · African Methodist Episcopal Zion · Alliance of Baptists · American Baptist · American Ethical Union · Anabaptist · Anglican · Animist · Asatru · Baha'i · Buddhist, Theravada · Buddhist, Nichiren · Buddhist, Pure Land (Amitabha) · Buddhist, Zen (Chan) · Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) · Christian Methodist Episcopal · Christian Union · Church of the Brethren · Church of Christ, Scientist · Church of God · The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints · Community Churches · Congregationalist · Cooperative Baptist Fellowship · Eastern Orthodox · Ecumenical Catholic · Episcopal · Evangelical Lutheran · Free Will Baptist · General Baptist · Greek Orthodox · Hindu (various schools) · Humanist · Jain · Jewish, Conservative · Jewish, Orthodox · Jewish, Reconstructionist · Jewish, Reform · Liberal Catholic · Lutheran · Mennonite · Metaphysical Church · Methodist · Metropolitan Community Churches · Moravian · Muslim · National Baptist Convention of America · National Baptist Convention, USA · Native American/Inuit (various) · Old Catholic · Pentecostal · Presbyterian · Progressive National Baptist Convention · Reformed Church of America · Religious Society of Friends (Quakers) · Roman Catholic · Russian Orthodox · Salvation Army · Shinto · Sikh · Seventh-day Adventist · Southern Baptist Convention · Taoist · Theosophist · Unitarian Universalist Association · United Church of Christ · United School of Christianity · Wiccan · Zoroastrian Promoting Civility in Public Discourse

America’s political dialogue can be Director The Rev. Dr. C. Welton harsh and unforgiving. The healthy Gaddy in reflecting on the sparks of honest policy disagreements organizations’ work several months are too often fanned into partisan later. “We had to help religious flames. In the midst of all the leaders minister to their flocks. We shouting, the public interest is had to send a message of acceptance to sometimes lost. In recent years, much Muslims, making clear that we of the harshness in politics has turned understood the difference between on matters of faith, as some candidates Osama bin Laden’s twisted and political groups have tried to win interpretation of Islam and the “To those who have lost converts to their political cause by interpretations observed in mosques loved ones in this and seeking to divide Americans along across the United States and most of other terrorist acts I say I religious lines. Therefore, The the rest of the world. And, we had to share your grief. I am sorry Interfaith Alliance and The Interfaith do what we could to make sure our that you have become vic- Alliance Foundation work to promote national leaders sounded the right tims of senseless violence. civility in public discourse both as a tones on this issue – that they were But let this sad episode not means to a richer and more sensitive to the Muslim community make you vengeful because substantive policy discussion, and as a here in America. Frankly, the no amount of violence is way to combat religious bigotry. president had not until that time going to bring you inner demonstrated particular sensitivity to peace. Anger and hate SEPTEMBER 11 the diversity of faith in the United States, and we were worried. I’m never do. The memory of Not surprisingly, much of the those victims who have pleased to say he got it exactly right, organizations’ work in this area in and we commended him for it when died in this and other vio- 2001 was related to the events of lent incidents around the he did. But at the time, it was a matter September 11. Almost immediately of great concern.” world will be better pre- following the attacks in New York, served and more The organizations’ work began the Washington and Pennsylvania, night of the terrorist attacks. By meaningfully commemo- speculation began that they were the rated if we all learn to chance, several Interfaith Alliances handiwork of “Muslim extremists.” It around the nation had planned public forgive. Let us dedicate our became instantly clear to The lives to creating a peaceful, outreach events that evening, on such Interfaith Alliance leaders that the topics as the Religious Right and respectful and understand- potential for a hateful backlash against ing world.” charitable choice. But that night they American Muslims was strong. were transformed into opportunities Arun Gandhi, Founder and Director of the “We knew we had several M.K. Gandhi Institute for Nonviolence, for communities to share their sorrow Member of The Interfaith Alliance important roles to play after and to renew their commitment to the Board of Directors September 11,” said Executive principles of diversity and pluralism.

The Interfaith Alliance of Colorado joined an estimated 3000 participants, representing 40 different religious traditions, to encircle the Islamic Center mosque as a show of support for Denver’s Muslim community. 8 LOCAL ALLIANCES SWING INTO ACTION The Interfaith Alliance Uses the Web to Heal Wounds of Division The next morning, The Interfaith Alliance issued a statement extending “We struggled with how best to resources and related stories of how its condolences to those touched by use our web resources after the tragedy was uniting Americans of the attacks. It called on Americans to September 11,” says Kaaryn Sanon, faith; and the other under the heading, “hold fast to the core values” of the webmaster of www.interfaithal- ‘Torn Apart,” where we faithfully doc- nation’s great religious traditions, and liance.org. “We wanted to be a umented the wrenching costs of the in so doing to deter hateful resource for religious leaders and a backlash of hate.” stereotyping and vengeful attacks on source of comfort for those Americans “We eventually came to understand Muslims and Islamic centers of in search of spiritual understanding of our little editorial choice as a metaphor worship. September 11. But we also wanted to for the larger struggle at play in America A number of local Alliance document the scope of the challenge – in the days and months following the affiliates moved quickly as well. The to capture in some way the very real attacks. Religion was, for most Denver Interfaith Alliance sponsored backlash taking shape against Americans, a source of unity and com- a human chain of more than 1,000 Muslims and, for that matter, Sikhs fort. But for an unfortunate few, it was people holding hands, surrounding a and Arab-Americans.” an excuse for ugliness. That is an eternal local mosque, as a symbol of the “Our solution was to divide the challenge we face: to allow faith to unite community’s embrace. So many 9/11 portion of the site into two group- us even where our religious practices supporters showed up, the mosque ings – one under the headline ‘Coming differ and to not use those differences as was encircled three times. The Together,” where we provided a pretext for violence.” Interfaith Alliance of Wake County, North Carolina immediately scheduled a meeting with their mayor to talk about possible backlash problems and to help plan preventive and healing measures. Government weeks following September 11, people, offices called on TIA affiliates in many looking for a spiritual response, could cases to lead “STOP the HATE” be seen in the three-fold increase of events, ecumenical services or other visitors to our site. local vigils – in Peoria, Illinois; Later, The Interfaith Alliance Rochester, New York; Marion County, Foundation devoted its entire fall issue Florida; Tulsa, Oklahoma; Brevard of Interfaith Insights to the subject, County, Florida; Nashville, Tennessee; including essays from religious leaders Wake County, North Carolina; of diverse traditions. Boston, Massachusetts; Saratoga, New In all their post-September 11 York; and Pittsburg, Kansas. activity, The Interfaith Alliance and The Interfaith Alliance Foundation ON THE INTERNET worked to communicate a message that has ever been at the heart of the The national office of The organizations’ work: America’s Interfaith Alliance Foundation began religious diversity must be respected piecing together a unique Internet and cherished, not used as grounds for resource designed to help clergy division and hate. “September 11 was pastor their flocks in the days the source of untold agony,” Gaddy immediately following the disaster. It Walter Cronkite Faith & Freedom Award concludes. “We felt a genuine Selection Committee member and 2001 included practical suggestions for obligation to make a significant Luncheon Guest Speaker Bill Moyers easing community tensions, prayers contribution by educating leaders and for peace from each of the major citizens about America’s rich diversity religions, a rich array of resources for and by serving as a clarion voice for people wanting to learn more about tolerance and unity. I’m proud that Islam, and a host of sample sermons we rose to the challenge.” from around the country on the topic. Another feature was a message board for inspiration and support, which allowed website visitors to read or add uplifting messages. In the days and 9 Raising Questions for Ashcroft “It is our concern that Senator Ashcroft, as Attorney General, would be hostile to the vigorous defense of … vital prece- dents. For example, at a 1998 gathering of the Christian Coalition, Senator Ashcroft said of these precedents, ‘A robed elite have taken the wall of separation built to protect the church and made it a wall of religious oppres- sion….’ [W]e have grave concerns about the appli- cation of these beliefs in his position as the nation’s top legal authority.” The Rev. Dr. C. Welton Gaddy, in testi- mony to the Senate Judiciary Committee, during consideration of John Ashcroft’s nomination to be Attorney General, January 17, 2001, Washington, DC Building a Movement to Stand Against Intolerance & Manipulation of Religion

American history is the story of an erance. We believe that the Judiciary ever-broadening circle of inclusion. Committee needs to investigate the very real Slowly – often too slowly – but surely, possibility, based upon prior public state- Americans have put aside prejudices ments by Senator Ashcroft, that the and looked beyond differences. The institutional wall between religion and gov- Interfaith Alliance was founded ernment could be weakened – and to combat intolerance in further, that the federal gov- the name of religion ernment’s commitment to and in 2001, contin- neutral treatment of all ued the steady religious traditions work of building could be challenged a movement to by his assumption counter reli- of the office of gious political Attorney General. Alliance spokespeople conducted extremism. The Interfaith numerous media interviews on the sub- Such excesses Alliance also ject, including a network television have come to be worked to involve appearance on ABC. almost routine for a diverse group of the Religious Right. religious voices in the GROWING But one development call for a thorough exami- INSTITUTIONAL in 2001 was anything but nation of the Ashcroft STRENGTH routine: Pat Robertson’s announce- nomination, once again playing a ment that he was leaving the helm of unique role in an important national In these and other efforts through- the Christian Coalition. Precisely what debate. At a Washington press confer- out the year, The Interfaith Alliance the move will mean to the Christian ence in mid-January, leaders of and The Interfaith Alliance Coalition remains to be seen. One Buddhist, Jewish, Christian, and Sikh Foundation were able to call on an thing is certain, however, the political communities joined The Interfaith ever-growing network of organiza- might the Christian Coalition lent to Alliance in voicing concerns over the tions, religious leaders and activists. In the Religious Right, and particularly to nominee’s record. And The Interfaith addition to its highest ever member- its standing within the Republican party, will not change anytime soon, no matter what Robertson does. Among the notable examples of religious THE ASHCROFT intolerance in 2001: NOMINATION The Revs. Jerry Falwell and Pat Commandments in schools and other Indeed, it was with that very con- Robertson blamed the September 11 public buildings. To skirt the obvious stituency in mind, no doubt, that attacks on “abortionists and the femi- separation of church and state prob- President George W. Bush, only just nists and the gays and lesbians.” lem and concerns about religious victorious and presumably eager to “God continues to lift the curtain and diversity – posting the Ten project a centrist image, nevertheless allow the enemies of America to give Commandments is plainly intended to reached to the far right wing of his us probably what we deserve,” advance, and would in fact, promote party to nominate Religious Right Falwell told a television audience as religious beliefs – supporters typically favorite John Ashcroft to be Attorney Robertson quickly agreed. Both later assert that they are instead interested General of the United States. sought to distance themselves from in the Commandments for their “his- The Interfaith Alliance recognized their words, without actually issuing torical” significance. immediately that the appointment retractions or apologies. In Congress, the Religious Right’s raised serious questions about how or Earlier in the year, Falwell unwit- allies pushed legislation that would whether an Ashcroft-led Justice tingly demonstrated one of the likely turn Americans’ desire for meaning- Department would enforce religious hazards of the president’s plan to ful campaign finance reform on its liberty and the separation of religion greatly expand “charitable choice,” ear. Their legislation would permit and government. As Executive Director saying that with respect to funding to churches, synagogues, mosques, and The Rev. Dr. C. Welton Gaddy noted Muslim groups, “Islam should be out other religious institutions, under in testimony to the Senate Judiciary the door before they knock.” color of tax exemption, to endorse Committee weighing the nomination: political candidates and to spend up [T]he United States Department of State after state in 2001, extrem- to 20 percent of their revenues on Justice will play a defining role in determin- ists’ organizations pushed legislation lobbying activities. ing to what extent our country is committed to mandate the posting of the Ten to the principles of religious diversity and tol- 11 print and electronic outreach in a most promising way. The more than 2,000 members of the Network receive a variety of services from The Interfaith Alliance and The Interfaith Alliance Foundation, including the print version of the organizations’ ship of 150,000, the organizations of the alerts in 2001 generated more scholarly journal on faith and politics, have harnessed technology to create than 10,000 emails and faxes to Interfaith Insights. The organizations fast and efficient methods of commu- Capitol Hill, all targeted to specific regularly post sermon ideas and cus- nication and activism. members of Congress at moments tomized information on upcoming The organizations’ Interfaith when their action was most needed. Congressional action. Over the course Internet Community Action Network For local Alliances and affiliated of 2001, The Interfaith Alliance called (ICAN), accessible via The Interfaith organizations, the website now fea- on the leaders to take part in a hand- Alliance website, has attracted an tures an activists-only, password- ful of activities – a local event, signing impressive 12,000 members and protected area that includes how-to onto a letter to a decision-maker, dis- activists to its listserv. Participants resources, activism tips, downloadable tributing Interfaith Alliance materials receive periodic action-alert emails versions of speeches and statements to their own networks, or other specific directing them to specific action by The Interfaith Alliance leaders and effort. Work in 2002 will be built opportunities on issues related to their board members, a media relations on the accomplishments of 2001, as expressed interests. Recipients fre- handbook, a master calendar of events the Network seeks to play a key quently forward the messages to their as reported by local Alliances, and role in monitoring local campaigns’ friends, colleagues and allies, multiply- more. compliance with the Alliance’s guide- ing their reach. Between the website, The 2001 launch of the National lines on legal and ethical ways the listserv and local forwarding, several Religious Leaders Network combines congregations can and should partici- pate in the electoral process. Another important outreach vehi- On Religious Diversity and Public Policy cle is the Alliance’s National Leadership Gathering. Held in late Think of the power that is ours when that care for the vulnerable, for the March in 2001, the annual event our consensus on policy positions - needy, for the tired, poor and huddled brings together the leaders of local whether it is poverty relief or civility or masses yearning to breathe free can- Alliances for issue discussions and education or human rights - emerges not be accomplished by throwing training on grassroots organizing, not from a single-minded agreement money at programs, or even by sub- fundraising, local media, and more. on politics, but from the often diver- contracting those programs to caring The 2001 session attracted more than gent paths we each follow to do what religious communities… Good gov- 50 core local leaders – the highest is right and faithful in the context of ernment, our government must be our attendance in the sessions’ five-year our unique commitments. Think of partner in the goal to provide a better history. In the estimation of Interfaith the difference between saying, life for all Americans, not only, but Alliance grassroots organizers, the ‘America, we, your citizens, agree to especially for the poor, the vulnerable, 2001 session’s success played an search for your promise in our faith,’ the under served. important role in both the quality and and ‘America, we have searched our Rabbi Jack Moline, at The Interfaith quantity of local affiliate activity in faith and agree - you are the promise Alliance’s National Leadership Gathering, 2001 – much of it focused on March 25, 2001, Washington, DC of your citizens.’ …Our responsibility charitable choice. is to remind our government constantly

The Interfaith Alliance and the American Assembly co-sponsor the Religion in Houston Public Life Assembly, Houston, TX.

12 Embracing and Giving Voice to Diversity

An interfaith prayer vigil in Denver, CO.

The Interfaith Alliance celebrates by GOP leaders. But in the absence America’s diversity, particularly its rich of other clearly articulated voices of variety of faith traditions. Only by faith in the debate, the danger that embracing diversity can our differences the Christian Coalition and its allies be a source of national strength. will be mistaken for legitimate In practical terms, The Interfaith messengers is acute. Alliance’s embrace of diversity takes The Interfaith Alliance’s interest the form of tireless work to ensure in campaign finance grows not just every faith community’s voice is heard from the desire to balance the in the political dialogue, not just the Religious Right’s participation in the voices of the Religious Right. By dialogue, but also from a deeper building genuine bonds of trust with concern about the corrosive effect the A Mainstream Reaction to the leaders of America’s minority and current finance system has on the Religious Political majority religions, The Interfaith practice of democracy. Extremism Alliance has become one of the few Since the organizations’ earliest organizations in the nation that can days, the conduct of political “Over the years, Falwell quickly and effectively reach out to campaigns has been an important and Robertson have gained the full spectrum of religious thought. priority. That experience has led to considerable influence. One important initiative in this the inescapable conclusion that the Their tactics are shrewd. regard in 2001 was The Interfaith system’s failings are directly They twist the traditional Alliance’s work to bring voices of faith responsible for the enormous public healing role of religion into into the ongoing dialogue over cynicism about the political process. an intolerant, political plat- campaign finance reform. For some, Americans hold politicians in form. But using religion as the connection between faith and generally low esteem, perceiving that a tool to push their personal campaign cash may seem distant. The they spend more time raising money political beliefs – especially Religious Right certainly did not see it from wealthy donors than addressing in a time of national that way. A variety of extremist their constituents’ true concerns. tragedy – not only insults organizations weighed in, claiming As national religious organizations people of faith, but it also along the way to be the true voice of that hear regularly from people in diminishes the positive faith in America. mosques, synagogues, churches, and healing role religion can Not surprisingly, the Religious other worship centers across the play in public life.” Right’s view on campaign finance nation, The Interfaith Alliance and Walter Cronkite, March 2002 appeared to be largely the product The Interfaith Alliance Foundation of movement leaders’ desire to recognize the importance of campaign protect their partisan political finance reform. It is not merely a agenda. They opposed reform technical tinkering with election proposals, echoing arguments made regulations, but an issue that goes to 13 the essence of the ethical and moral Press Club in Washington, D.C. on life of the nation, involving the core September 6, 2001. values that unite us: honesty, integrity, While the Gallup research was ongo- and fairness. ing, The Interfaith Alliance also worked to compile and share the views of the PEOPLE OF FAITH AND various faith traditions on reform. Here CAMPAIGN FINANCE again, the purpose was to counter REFORM: DETAILED Christian Coalition and its allies’ claim SURVEY RESEARCH that they speak for people of faith. Indeed, 14 religious organizations, rep- With generous support from the resenting practically the entire spectrum Pew Charitable Trusts, The Interfaith of faith in America, furnished state- Alliance Foundation, in coalition with ments supporting meaningful reform. Colby College, set out in 2001 to The Interfaith Alliance distributed the understand how people of faith think statements to members of Congress and conversation: How to more about campaign finance reform. We other key decision-makers. In addition, effectively address the need for contracted with the Gallup the statements, the poll results and a sustained attention to public Organization to conduct a public range of resource materials became the theology among the next generation opinion poll and ten focus groups on basis for www.callforreform.org, an elec- of religious leaders in the United the subject, gauging separately the tion and campaign finance reform States. The organization’s interest in views of self-identified people of faith website, maintained by The Interfaith the issue sprang from feedback from and of clergy. Alliance Foundation. clergy who said they felt ill-prepared The findings affirmed the view that by their divinity school experience to people of faith regard the current cam- FINDING RELIGION’S encourage responsible civic paign system as contrary to their core VOICE participation or to respond to values, and it undercut the Christian divisive public debates. The three Coalition’s repeated assertion that peo- Two other important 2001 resulting events nicely ple of faith opposed campaign finance initiatives of The Interfaith Alliance complemented the ongoing work of reform in general, and restrictions on Foundation sought to embrace and the National Religious Leaders last-minute, interest-group advertising give voice to diversity. First was a Network, generating forthright and in particular. The Interfaith Alliance series of three gatherings at major creative conversation. Foundation released the final report on American seminaries – in Atlanta, With the assistance of theological the Gallup research at the National Chicago and Berkeley. The topic for administrators and educators in each

The Interfaith Alliance President and Bishop of Washington, Pro tempore, Jane Holmes Dixon

14 Campaign Finance Reform and People of Faith “These polls emphasize the strong beliefs that people of faith and clergy have concerning cam- paign finance reform and free speech, and these groups, collectively, are highly motivated to make a difference. While many of those surveyed are unsure of how they can effect change on an indi- vidual level, we can play a vital role in mobilizing clergy to educate their congregants about taking action on campaign finance reform.” The Rev. Dr. C. Welton Gaddy, Washington, DC works to encourage thoughtful discussion on pressing matters of public policy, as well as to create new dialogue among opinion leaders. The organization’s method makes it truly unique: A typical Assembly event would unite several dozen site, The Interfaith Alliance men and women of national repute Foundation brought together admin- in a multi-day conversation on a istrative personnel, faculty members, given subject, leading to a consensus students, and local religious leaders report from the group. for vibrant and thoughtful discus- One of several subjects The sions about the relationship between American Assembly has tackled is the the many religions in Houston. Where personal faith, interfaith communities, role of religion in public life – a differences emerged, they were openly and political participation, both in conversation encompassing charitable discussed, without divisiveness, in an current seminary education and in choice, religion in the schools and atmosphere of mutual respect. The the present realities of local parish more. The Assembly’s events have intention behind these efforts was to ministry. The conversations will included participants from around the examine how the shared religious serve as a springboard for future nation. But in August of 2001, The values could help resolve non- work on the subject. Interfaith Alliance Foundation and the religious issues.” The result was a Finally, The Interfaith Alliance Assembly collaborated on a dialogue series of enlightening conversations, Foundation forged a new specific to Houston. By one and a shared consensus that reflected partnership in 2001 with The participant’s account, they “sought to flexibility and compromise on the American Assembly. The Assembly identify those values shared among part of the participants.

Civil Rights, Minimum Wage, Civil Liberties

While most of The Interfaith joined with other religious organiza- appalling gap between the haves and Alliance’s legislative work in 2001 tions in March in calling for passage have-nots in our nation.” dealt with “charitable choice” and of a Hate Crimes Prevention Act. Bills In the wake of September 11, as campaign finance reform, other issues in both houses of Congress remained Congress considered fast-track legisla- demanded the organization’s atten- bottled up in committee. tion drastically restricting defendants’ tion as well. In July, the Rev. Dr. C. Welton rights, The Interfaith Alliance joined During debate over reauthoriza- Gaddy issued a blistering statement, a diverse group of religious leaders, tion of the Elementary and Secondary criticizing the Bush administration’s urging that cooler heads prevail. Said Education Act, the federal govern- support for language in prospective The Rev. Dr. Gaddy: “It is incumbent ment’s chief funding vehicle for charitable choice legislation to permit upon Congress to not let the actions public education, Sen. Jesse Helms the Salvation Army to discriminate of September 11 cause us to ignore (R-NC) introduced an amendment to against gays and lesbians while accept- our fundamental civil liberties and prohibit federal funding to school dis- ing federal funding. In exchange, news civil rights as we seek to deal with tricts that barred the Boy Scouts of reports said, the administration won issues of national security.” America from using school facilities the Salvation Army’s support for the During the fall of 2001, The because of the group’s overtly anti- administration’s initiative. Interfaith Alliance Foundation strength- gay policies. The Interfaith Alliance In June, The Interfaith Alliance ened our relationships with the worked to oppose the amendment joined other religious leaders in a advocacy organizations affiliated with and to mobilize organizations of faith coalition push for an increase in the the Muslim and Sikh community, as to oppose it as well. Helms succeeded minimum wage. “If we strive to be a violence and bigotry toward these nevertheless. fair and just society,” said the Rev. communities escalated. We worked In response to the release of a Dr. Gaddy in announcing the organi- together on several cooperative ven- report on the disturbing incidence of zation’s support, “then we have a tures, including addressing religious hate crimes, The Interfaith Alliance moral obligation to address the and racial profiling at airports.

16 Recognizing Faithful Servants

Twice during the course of 2001, community change in times of crisis. The Interfaith Alliance Foundation He has worked to build interfaith paused to honor the contributions of dialogue between Muslims and Jews, important colleagues and allies. In to promote racial justice and labor May, Bill Moyers joined the rights, both nationally and in his organization to award its third community of Los Angeles. annual Walter Cronkite Faith & On March 25, The Interfaith Freedom Award to U.S. Rep. Chet Alliance Foundation presented its first Edwards of Texas and to Rabbi annual Bishop P. Francis Murphy Steven Jacobs of Temple Kol Tikvah Memorial Local Activism Award to the 2001 Walter in Woodland Hills, California. Interfaith Alliance of Central California Cronkite Faith & Freedom Award Representative Edwards was (IACC) at a dinner ceremony in recipients, Chet honored for his longtime role as an Washington. Since 1998, IACC has Edwards and Rabbi advocate of religious freedom and worked in Fresno to foster interfaith Steven Jacobs defender of liberty. In particular, dialogue, while creating opportunities Representative Edwards has played an for meaningful civic participation. The important role in raising awareness Alliance has been particularly active among fellow members of Congress protecting public education; promoting on the hazards of “charitable choice.” diverse, interfaith inclusion in civic Rabbi Jacobs has compiled an events; and cultivating unprecedented impressive record, creating positive dialogue between the local Jewish and Muslim communities. The IACC was chosen as the first to receive the award because their past year’s work most embodied the mission of promoting the positive role of religion in public life.

The Interfaith Alliance honors out- standing local activists.

17 Faith & Freedom Circle The Interfaith Alliance and The Interfaith Alliance Foundation would like to thank the following dedicated individuals and institutions who have contributed $500 or more in 2001.

FOUNDERS Fred & Gilda Nobel R. T. Hubbard INSTITUTIONAL Diane W. Parker Rosemary H. Jackson SUPPORTERS Elsie H. Hillman Rev. Dr. Albert M. & Robert D. & Mary Jane Johnson Anne Hale & Arthur Johnson M.H. Pennybacker Kathleen O. Kauffmann Adams Hussey & Associates Skip Perry Mr. & Mrs. Conrad M. Kay Alliance of Baptists PARTNERS Harriet Jean Peterson Rev. Jean L. Kiskaddon Baptist Joint Committee on Public Affairs Elizabeth R. Steele Mary E. Samuelson Merle & Phyllis Krause Hardy & Betty J. Sanders Mr. & Mrs. William Krieg Ben & Jerry's Foundation Jacob J. & Cindy Sternklar Carnegie Corporation of New Worenklein Frederick Schreiber Mr. & Mrs. George Krumme Alan B. Slifka Jay & Alexis Langner York Communities Foundation of ASSOCIATES John L. Speier Dr. Tari Lennon Kenneth I. & Marisa Starr Charles & Margaret Lester Texas Joseph F. Cullman, III Elsie B. Terral Eleanor Nelson Lewis The Convention of the Rev. James K. & The Right Reverend Orris G. Joseph Long & Susan Mease Protestant Episcopal Church Barbara P. Donnell Walker, Jr. Tom W. Lyons of the Diocese of Michael Fuchs Rev. Gloria & John R. Weber Dr. & Mrs. Albert Macovski Washington Rev. Dr. C. Welton & James C. Wilson Joel & Yvette Mallah Nathan Cummings Foundation Julia May Gaddy Stuart & Chris Woods Rev. Frederick McManus The Domestic & Foreign Walter E. Kalberer Rev. Mary B. McMillan Missionary Society of the Steven Loeshelle & FRIENDS Mr. & Mrs. Charles O. Metzger Protestant Episcopal Church M. Gervase Rosenberger Dr. & Mrs. Beno Michel in the U.S.A. Parker Pengilly Hayward Alker Morris & Melinda Mintz Eckhart & Company Dr. Zia & Frances Taheri Walter Archey Rev. Carol Mitchell egrants.org Jane Welch Dr. Holly G. Atkinson & Dr. Lloyd Mitterling The Episcopal Church Diocese Rev. Galen Guengerich Rabbi Jack Moline of Long Island ALLIES Dr. & Mrs. Mark Beckerman Betty Lou Muldoon Ford Foundation Donald Bedingfeld James & Lorie Nantz Gay & Lesbian Fund of Grant Abert & Nancy Ward Dr. Jaudon E. Behrman Mary Newman Colorado Anonymous Sara Blackwell Nanciann K. Ninde Georgia Alliance of Baptists Lynn P. Babicka Rev. Peggy & David Block Frances Nyce Gill Foundation Ruth McLean Bowers Tim Boggs Lila Osborne The William T. Hillman Mary Catherine Bunting Bonnie Brae Richard & Joyce Pauker Foundation Barbara Burnim Ann Bretz Brian E. Peierls Human Rights Campaign William H. Calhoun David & Helen Gurley Brown Mary E. Pennock International Association of Rev. Dr. F. Forrester Church & Carolyn Brown Marian E. & Eugene Petersen Machinists and Aerospace Carolyn M. Buck-Luce John Brown, Jr. Melva Peterson Workers Mary S. Cooper Mr. & Mrs. C. S. Burgess Dr. Blair Plimpton International Brotherhood of Senator Jon & Joanne Corzine Dr. John Carroll Thomas L. & Sandra M. Reece Electrical Workers Daniel Couch & Jeffrey Carter Morna Reid-Schwartz Karma Foundation Deidre Cochran Alicia & David L. Claypool Bobby L. Roberts Esther A. & Joseph Klingenstein Virginia de Lima Dorothy Clevenger Jenny Root Fund, Inc. Frank P. Doyle Jean Cluett Rev. Dr. Dan Rosemergy Joseph Meyerhoff Fund Robert J. & Debra Poretsky Ekman Thomas Correll H. E. Rummel Nassau County Chapter of The Rev. Dr. James Forbes Kenneth A. Cox David N. Russ Interfaith Alliance Alexander D. Forger & Fern Schair Stephen T. Crary Dr. Anne Sagberg Pew Charitable Trusts Mr. & Mrs. Ivor W. Freeman Dr. David R. Currie Jane G. Sarosdy Prentice Foundation Murray & Anne T. Gartner Gwen Daigle Rev. LaVerne S. Sasaki The Regas Institute Mary L. Good Denise T. Davidoff Robert Savage The Eric F. Ross Foundation Crawford Gordon Dr. Margaret L. Dodds W. Ford Schumann St. Michael Parish Stewart H. & Connie Greenfield Laurence P. Eggers Dr. Dennis Selkoe Tulgey Wood Foundation Rev. Dr. Gwynne Guibord & Jack B. Elrick Cynthia L. Sennett Unitarian Universalist Dr. Lo Sprague Beulah Elving Rose Shure Association Hugh Halverstadt Aubrey Farb Barbara Campbell Skelly Unitarian Universalist Veatch Kay Hansma Carla Feinkind Dr. & Mrs. Ivan W. Sletten Program at Shelter Rock John W. & June Hechinger Linda K. Fitzgerald Patricia Steck United Auto Workers Mrs. H.J. Heinz, II Joyce Floyd James W. Stevens Leonard Wagner Charitable The Honorable Amo R. Freidberg Mr. & Mrs. Solon Stone Trusts Houghton, Jr. William A. Friedlander George Strausman Elinor Howenstein Victor & Mary Gauthier Helen E. Strohbehn Carl Jacobs Victor Gelb Bishop Walter F. Sullivan W. F. Kieschnick Rabbi David Gelfand Dr. D.S. Van Putten John & Pat Klingenstein Tasha Allyn Given John Vanderstar Wendy MacKenzie & Arthur Goodwin Joan M. Warburg Alexander Cortesi Bernard R. Green Helen Warmer Mrs. Jack C. Massey Edward O. Haenni Dale A. Warner Sam Michaels Dr. & Mrs. Jonathan G. Hanson David Welden Saul & Jean Mintz Clement Hapeman Rev. Leonard Wilmot William E. & Sue Mitchell William & Helen Haskins John & Patricia Wood Barbara S. Mosbacher Joyce Hausdorff Dr. William F. Worth Susan E. Nagle Robert W. & Louise F. Hewitt Lela S. Wright Jeannette D. Naman Irene Holloway Simon Zunamon Kate Neishuler Mr. & Mrs. Robert House 18 Financial Statement

STATEMENT OF ACTIVITIES The Interfaith Alliance For the year ending December 31, 2001 The Interfaith Alliance Foundation Revenues Events 3,025 106,521 Foundations – . 774,517 Leadership Donors 29,280 57,155 Membership 2,089,393 – . Other Institutional Support 5,035 2,800 Other Sources of Income 140,206 31,303 Gain on Disposal of Fixed Assets 3,506 – . Net Assets Released from Restriction Total Revenues $2,270,445 $972,296 Expenses Program Services: Grassroots Organizing, Religious Outreach and Issue Advocacy 1,551,585 – . Education, Research and Civil Discourse – . 787,057 Support Services: Management and General Operations 142,639 93,407 Fundraising 647,788 172,423 Total Expenditures $2,342,012 $1,052,887 Change in Net Assets ( 71,567) ( 80,591 ) Net Assets, Beginning of Year 363,948 534,233 Net Assets, End of Year $292,381 $453,642

STATEMENT OF POSITION The Interfaith Alliance December 31 2001 The Interfaith Alliance Foundation Assets Current Assets Cash 157,549 213,435 Certificates of Deposit 200,000 248,000 Due from The Interfaith Alliance – . 9,239 Property and Equipment, Net of Accumulated 27,527 20,578 Security Deposits 3,899 – . Total Assets $388,975 $491,252 Liabilities and Net Assets Current Liabilities Accounts Payable and Accrued Expenses 87,355 37,610 Due to The Interfaith Alliance Foundation 9,239 – . Total Liabilities $96,594 $37,610 Net Assets, Unrestricted 292,381 383,625 Net Assets, Temporarily Restricted – . 70,017 Total Net Assets 292,381 453,642 Total Liabilities and Net Assets $388,975 $491,252

Full audited statements available on request from the national office. 19 Board of Directors & Staff

THE INTERFAITH THE INTERFAITH Ms. Denise Davidoff THE INTERFAITH Former Moderator, Unitarian ALLIANCE ALLIANCE BOARD Universalist Association ALLIANCE/ FOUNDATION OF DIRECTORS Norwalk, CT FOUNDATION BOARD OF Mr. Alexander Forger STAFF Rt. Rev. Jane Holmes Dixon Executive Committee DIRECTORS President member at Large Bishop of Washington, Pro tempore Oak Springs Farms, LLC Rev. Dr. C. Welton Gaddy Executive Director Ms. Denise T. Davidoff Episcopal Diocese of New York, NY President Washington, DC Mr. Arun Gandhi Suzie Armstrong Former Moderator of the Unitarian Rev. Dr. Gwynne Guibord MK Gandhi Institute for Deputy Director for Finance and Universalist Association Nonviolence Development Norwalk, CT Vice President at Large Los Angeles, CA Memphis, TN Jennifer Bonardi Dr. Herbert D. Valentine Dr. Maher Hathout Sr. Rabbi David J. Gelfand Campaign Finance Reform Project Secretary/Treasurer Jewish Center of the Hamptons Coordinator Interim Pastor, First Presbyterian Vice President at Large Muslim Public Affairs Council East Hampton, NY

Church in Germantown Cecilia Budd McLean, VA PRODUCTIONS, Design by PARAS Philadelphia, PA Los Angeles, CA Rev. Leonard B. Jackson Financial Administrator Rabbi Jack Moline First African Methodist Dr. Robert Bellah Episcopal Church Angela Butler Vice President at Large Executive Assistant Professor Emeritus, Los Angeles, CA University of California at Berkeley Agudas Achim Congregation Berkeley, CA Alexandria, VA Becky Dansky Rev. Dr. Albert M. Campaign Finance Reform Mr. Ben Cohen Rev. Dr. Amos Brown Pennybacker Researcher Co-Founder, Secretary Consultant, Religious Relationships Ben & Jerry’s Homemade, Inc. Third Baptist Church & Public Policy Jenny Davis Burlington, VT San Francisco, CA Lexington, KY Communications Associate Dr. Diana Eck The Rev. Dr. Dan Rosemergy Rev. Dr. Staccato Powell Imani Dhakiya Director, The Pluralism Project Treasurer Philadelphia, PA Religious Outreach Coordinator Chair, Interfaith Alliance Harvard University Madeline J. Ferrell Cambridge, MA of Middle Tennessee Rev. Meg Riley Brookemeade Congregational UUA Office for Faith in Action Administrative Assistant Rev. Dr. James Forbes Church, UCC Washington, DC Nashville, TN Scott Harrison Senior Minister Rev. LaVerne Senyo Sasaki Deputy Director for Program and The Riverside Church Executive Committee Member at Administration New York, NY Imam Mahdi Bray President, Coordinating Council Large of Muslim Organizations Former Minister, Buddhist Church of Roger Limoges Rabbi Arthur Hertzberg Senior Public Policy Associate Former President of the American Washington, DC San Francisco Jewish Congress San Bruno, CA Benjamin Newbern Englewood, NJ Rev. Dr. Joan Brown Campbell Director, Department of Religion Dr. A. Knighton Stanley National Field Organizer Rev. Dr. Douglass T. Lind Chautauqua Institution Peoples Congregational Church Kaaryn Sanon Sigma Group of America Chautauqua, NY Washington, DC Web/Media Designer Stonington, CT Ms. Alicia Claypool Most Rev. Walter F. Melissa Schwartz Dr. William McKinney Executive Director, Sullivan, D.D. Media Relations Director President, Pacific School of Religion The Interfaith Alliance of Iowa Bishop, Catholic Diocesan of Berkeley, CA West Des Moines, IA Richmond Megan Vaughan Richmond, VA Deputy Director of Development Rabbi David Saperstein Dr. David Currie Director, Religious Action Center Texas Baptists Committed Dr. Herbert Valentine of Reform Judaism San Angelo, TX Founding President Washington, DC Interim Pastor, First Presbyterian Church in Germantown Philadelphia, PA Rev. Dr. J. Philip Wogaman Immediate Past President Former Senior Minister Foundry United Methodist Church The Interfaith Alliance Mission Statement Washington, DC Bishop Frederick C. James The purpose of The Interfaith Alliance is to Director Emeritus promote the positive and healing role of reli- Retired Bishop, The African Methodist gion in public life through encouraging civic Episcopal Church participation, facilitating community activism, Columbia, SC and challenging religious political extremism. Rev. Gardner Taylor Director Emeritus Former President of the Progressive The Interfaith Alliance Foundation Baptist Convention Mission Statement Brooklyn, NY Mr. William P. Thompson The mission of The Interfaith Alliance Director Emeritus Foundation is to promote the positive and LaGrange, IL healing role of religion in public life through Mr. Foy Valentine Director Emeritus Phone: 202.639.6370 education, research, and civil discourse. Dallas, TX Fax: 202.639.6375 www.interfaithalliance.org

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