Who Supports ISNA? Hartford Seminary

Special Announcement

Hartford, CT Jan 19, 2009 - It is disturbing that our colleague, Professor Ingrid Mattson, is being depicted as someone who heads an organization with ties to terrorists. A quick check of the facts, and of Dr. Mattson's public denouncement of terrorism, would demonstrate that this is an irresponsible attack, not only on her but also on what America stands for.

The United States is a country that celebrates democracy. So does Dr. Mattson. The United States is a country that openly endorses diversity and freedom of religion. So does Dr. Mattson. That the Associated Press publishes an article that is so off-base reflects poorly on AP - not on Dr. Mattson.

Those who choose to criticize Islam should take the time to talk with Dr. Mattson and read her commentaries. They should take the time to educate themselves before they strike out. Dr. Mattson says, "if religion is not about expanding the borders of your empathy, you might as well write it off. Religion is all about extending mercy and caring."

This is the essence of her message - a message that promotes interfaith dialogue. She works tirelessly to prepare peacemakers through Hartford Seminary's Islamic Chaplaincy Program and as director of the Seminary's world renowned program in Christian-Muslim Relations. She works just as tirelessly to build a strong institutional presence for Muslims in America - not through support for terrorism but through conversation with government.

We should celebrate that Dr. Mattson is offering a prayer at the Inauguration. She is owed an apology by the Associated Press and all those who have echoed its words.

Hartford Seminary prepares peacemakers. It is proud that Dr. Ingrid Mattson is one of those on our faculty who participate in this important work. Let us talk before striking out; let us break bread before we cast stones.

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