Interfaith Alliance Condemns Rep. Ogles Appalling Anti-Muslim Hate and Contempt for Religious Freedom

Interfaith Alliance, a leading advocate for religious freedom and multi-faith democracy, condemned the hideous anti-Muslim bigotry spread by Representative Andy Ogles (R-Tennessee). 

In an extended social media diatribe, Ogles said that “Muslims don’t belong in American society…pluralism is a lie…If muslims want to practice their law and exemplify Muhammadan culture, that is where they belong [in Muslim countries].” His comments follow on other prominent instances of anti-Muslim bigotry from elected officials – including from Rep. Randy Fine (R-Florida) and the extensive targeting of Muslim communities and their rights by legislators in Texas. 

Rev. Paul Brandeis Raushenbush, President and CEO of Interfaith Alliance, released the following statement:

“It’s sadly no longer shocking to learn that some Members of Congress hold deeply bigoted beliefs about Muslims – yet it’s still appalling and dangerous to see Rep. Ogles spread such hatred without facing consequences. His diatribe – and the tepid response from Speaker Johnson and other Republican leaders – show that they fundamentally misunderstand the country they are living in, and the Constitution that they swore an oath to uphold. 

“Rep. Ogles and others in his party like to talk about their support for religious freedom, yet apparently believe this freedom should apply only to those who share their own narrow Christian nationalist beliefs and practices. In truth, religious freedom only for some means religious freedom for none. The claim that Muslims – or any religious group – “don’t belong in American society” is an attack on the founding vision of the United States as a country free from religious persecution and government-mandated religion. 

“The attack on pluralism is an attack on the very ideals of coexistence, equality and freedom that make our country great. Indeed, what really “doesn’t belong in American society” is this kind of hatred and ignorance. 

“The hate spread by Rep. Ogles represents an extreme minority view in our country. The large majority of Americans, including people of faith, are committed to upholding the First Amendment, and to the vital work of living alongside each other with mutual respect for everyone’s fundamental freedoms and dignity. While these demagogues aim to incite hatred and fear, we will overcome them. We will defend and achieve our pluralistic democracy, together.”

CONTACT: Prapti Ajmera, West End Strategy Team, 202-867-5231

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‍‍‍Interfaith Alliance and Interfaith Alliance Foundation are a network of people of diverse faiths and beliefs from across the country working together to build a resilient democracy and fulfill America’s promise of religious freedom and civil rights not just for some, but for all. We mobilize powerful coalitions to challenge Christian nationalism and religious extremism, while fostering a better understanding of the healthy boundaries between religion and government. We advocate at all levels of government for an equitable and just America where the freedoms of belief and religious practice are protected, and where all persons are treated with dignity and have the opportunity to thrive. For more information, visit interfaithalliance.org.