Bend the Arc distressed by Bannon’s influence
NEW YORK (Press Release) – In response to multiple news reports on the expanding role of White House chief strategist Steve Bannon within the Trump administration, Stosh Cotler, CEO of Bend the Arc Jewish Action, released the following statement:
“We are deeply distressed by recent indications that Steve Bannon, a purveyor of white nationalist, racist rhetoric and conspiracy theories, is leading the charge in shaping the policies of the Trump administration. Reports that Bannon personally overruled the Department of Homeland Security’s guidance that Trump’s ‘Muslim ban’ should not apply to green card holders is just one example of the frightening degree to which white supremacy is now influencing the actions of the federal government.
“We’re also dismayed by President Trump’s decision to give Bannon a permanent spot on the Principals Committee of the National Security Council. The elevation of a political advisor, particularly one with Bannon’s radically un-American worldview, to a position of such importance violates both fundamental principles of our democracy as well as common sense, and it makes all Americans less safe. Bannon’s recent attacks on the free press are yet another indication of his radical agenda and his utter lack of regard for basic American values.
“We are inspired by the spontaneous uprisings across the country in which the American people are protesting and demonstrating against the ‘Muslim ban’ and making clear that we reject the hateful, bigoted policies advocated by Bannon and Trump. American Jews, who recognize all too well the danger of turning away refugees who are literally fleeing for their lives, stand in solidarity with our Muslim brothers and sisters in the United States and around the world. Our country must remain a beacon of hope and a refuge for those seeking safety from war and persecution. We call on all political leaders to uphold this fundamental principle by urging the Trump administration to rescind this horrifying executive order.”
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American Jewish Committee denounces attack at Quebec mosque
New York (Press Release) — AJC is appalled by the fatal attack on a mosque in Canada. Six people were killed and eight wounded in the assault during evening prayers at the Quebec Islamic Cultural Center. Two suspects have been detained.
“This was an attack on Canada, not only on one mosque. Indeed, it was an attack on any democratic society founded on religious pluralism that today faces threats against its Muslim populations,” said Robert Silverman, AJC Director of Muslim-Jewish Relations. “Our thoughts are with the families of the worshippers senselessly murdered, and with the injured, who are in need of our prayers.”
Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau condemned the “terrorist attack on Muslims in a center of worship and refuge.”
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Rep. Davis demands airport detainees be given access to attorneys
WASHINGTON, D.C. (Press Release) – In a letter to Customs and Border Protection (CBP), Congresswoman Susan Davis (D-San Diego) requested information on any people with visas or Lawful Permanent Resident (LPR) status who might be detained at San Diego International Airport. Davis also called for them to be released from CBP custody and that they be allowed access to attorneys.
“People who have been lawfully vetted and granted legal status are being detained illegally as a result of the president’s unconstitutional executive order,” said Davis. “We need to know who they are and they need to be released immediately and granted access to lawyers. This order is striking fear into families who have legal status and have done nothing wrong. This should never happen in America and the White House should immediately rescind this executive order.”
The letter sent to CBP Acting Commissioner Kevin McAleenan asks for clarification of how the executive order is being implemented and how it pertains to current visa holders seeking entry into the United States, visa applicants, LPRs, dual citizens, United States citizens and any other individuals from the seven designated countries in the Executive Order
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Preceding culled from press releases sent to San Diego Jewish World via editor@sdjewishworld.com