by Damozel | [Cross-posted at Versus/Reversus & The Marginal Christian] At Slacktivist, Fred Clark wrote a searing response
to Mona Charen's distressing recent column on
torture. Thanks, Slacktivist, for doing this---so other blogs don't have
to. 
And since it's Christmas, I also found via Slacktivist this site: The National Religious Campaign Against Torture.
For some reason, the group limits membership to organizations (i.e.,
to churches), but you can sign a statement and get other information on
opposing as immoral the government's use of torture. Read NRCAT's statement below and then please go there and sign it. After all, it's Christmas---the best time to speak Truth to Power (as Marley's Ghost would affirm).
"Torture is a Moral Issue" Statement of Conscience (NRCAT)
Torture violates the basic dignity of the human person that all religions, in their highest ideals, hold dear. It degrades everyone involved -- policy-makers, perpetrators and victims. It contradicts our nation's most cherished ideals. Any policies that permit torture and inhumane treatment are shocking and morally intolerable.
Nothing less is at stake in the torture abuse crisis than the soul of our nation. What does it signify if torture is condemned in word but allowed in deed? Let America abolish torture now -- without exceptions.
Why Should You, as a Person of Faith, Endorse NRCAT's Statement of Conscience - "Torture is a Moral Issue"
- It is always important to take a public stand on clear issues of right and wrong. As Nobel Laureate, Eli Wiesel proclaimed, "I swore never to be silent whenever and wherever human beings endure suffering and humiliation."
- It is important to support each other, to join hands with like-minded people of all faiths, in the effort to end U.S.-sponsored torture.
- Numbers make impressions on policymakers and the media - NRCAT shares the number of endorsers with members of Congress, the press, and other religious organizations.
- Our elected representatives are pledged to be responsible to their constituents. Your endorsement sends a message to your Congressperson, and once again, numbers speak loudly.
- As the number of endorsers grows, NRCAT will continue to provide the opportunity to endorse the Statement of Conscience, therefore it is important to spread the word and urge others to add their endorsement.
- We all want to effect positive change. Like the story of the butterfly that fluttered its wings on one side of the globe, inducing a tsunami on the other, your endorsement is one way to create the climate for change.
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