Katie Tolles: Don’t let Mideast war divide us

The mission statement of the Interfaith Opportunities Network, an organization 21 faith congregations and campus ministries in the Amherst area, says that we are “seeking to strengthen bonds of mutual respect and understanding.” Along with so many in our congregations and in the community at large, we are greatly saddened and concerned about the heartbreaking and dire situation in the Mideast and about the repercussions of that situation in this country.

Each of the many traditions represented in our organization (which include Islam, Judaism, Christianity, Buddhism, Baha’i, Quakerism, and Unitarian Universalism) emphasize peace and justice. The roots of our faiths should bring us together.

This, and our love and respect for one another across our differences, makes us deeply concerned about the rise in antisemitism and Islamophobia in our country. Despite our feelings about what governments and other political organizations may do, we must not let it turn us against our neighbors, no matter who they may be.

As we examine our own attitudes, we also encourage those in our congregations and in the community at large to speak out against blatant and subtle forms of antisemitism and Islamophobia that they may witness.

Katie Tolles

For the Interfaith Opportunities Network of the Amherst area