CALL TO ACTION: Interfaith Leaders of South Carolina call for ICE to respect religious spaces

For Immediate Release: April 14, 2025

COLUMBIA–As members of Interfaith Partners of South Carolina, we stand together in deep concern and solidarity in response to the alarming rise of deportations, threats of ICE raids, arbitrary arrests of international students, and the potential invasion of our sacred houses of worship.

In these challenging times, we must remember our shared values of compassion, justice, and respect for all individuals. Our faiths call us to love, care for and protect those who are most vulnerable. We believe that every person deserves to live without fear, regardless of their immigration status.

The thought of our sacred spaces being used as sites for enforcement actions is deeply troubling. Our houses of worship should be places of refuge, love, and community, not places where fear and division are allowed to take root. We are committed to ensuring that our congregations remain safe havens for all who seek solace and support.

We urge our local and national leaders to prioritize immigration policies that respect the human dignity of every person. We call for an end to the use of unjust raids and deportations that promote family separation and create an atmosphere of fear in our communities.

All our faith traditions affirm the inherent worth and dignity of every individual. We will not stand idly by while our neighbors are threatened. We will continue to advocate for justice and to support those who are affected by these policies.

We invite all people of faith and goodwill to join us in this important work by clicking and signing the link below. Together, we can create a community that values compassion over fear, understanding over division, and love over hate.

In solidarity, all are encouraged to respond in one or more of the following ways:

1. Sign the online statement https://chng.it/LqMrjTmf6J
2. Read the statement in your religious services and gatherings.
3. Post a copy of the statement on bulletin boards in your house of worship.
4. Post a copy of the statement on your social media.
5. Copy the ACLU “Know Your Rights” (red card) and make available to members of your congregation and to friends.  English  Spanish

The mission of Interfaith Partners of South Carolina is to bring together people of diverse religious, spiritual, and secular paths throughout our state to cultivate a more harmonious community. Learn more about programs and services at www.interfaithpartnersofsc.org. For more information, contact ipsc@interfaithpartnersofsc.org