Who Supports ISNA?Common Cause

Special Announcement

Statement by Dr. Bob Edgar, President, Common Cause

July 2, 2008

I am personally offended by the United States Justice Department’s apparent designation of the Islamic Society of North America (ISNA) as an unindicted co-conspirator in the Holy Land Foundation Case.  This reminds me of the so-called communist “which hunts” of the 1950s.  It is unfortunate that the authorities failed to consult with either the leadership of ISNA or any of the interfaith organizations that have worked closely with ISNA over the years before rushing to make such a harmful accusation.  

As a United Methodist pastor and former General Secretary of the National Council of Churches, I find that the arbitrary designation of ISNA by the Justice Department’s lawyers shows an astounding lack of respect for the damaging consequences of their actions in this post 9-11 environment.  One wonders if this was politically pressured or an unintended consequence of the lack of research by the lawyers involved in the Holy Land Foundation Case.  Whatever the reason, I urge that this harmful designation be “expunged” immediately.

As a former United States Congressman, I know the importance of protecting our national security, but attacks on responsible American cultural and/or religious organizations without cause are a blatant violation of civil rights.  As you know, we are not a “Christian Nation.”  Our founding fathers and mothers, after years of persecution, were smart enough to create a nation that respects “religious pluralism” and cultural diversity.  The United States Constitution insures “justice for all,” not “justice for some.”

As the President of Common Cause, a 38 year-old good government institution, I respectfully urge the Court to remove the “unindicted co-conspirator” designation from the Islamic Society of North America.  If you need additional information from me on the important contributions ISNA makes to our country, please do not hesitate to contact me.

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Bob Edgar
President
Common Cause
1133 19th Street NW, Suite 900
Washington, DC 20036
202-725-7029 (cell) – redgar@CommonCause.org