As members of different faiths in Utah, we respect each other’s differences and embrace our shared values. Our common roots in the teachings of Scripture guide us to certain universal truths. Thus:
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We believe that every person has value and must be granted basic human rights. One of our basic rights is to emigrate to escape from poverty, political strife, or any other life or dignity-threatening circumstance.
We believe individuals and families should be treated with dignity, not taken advantage of or called criminals because they seek food, clothing, shelter, and education. |
We believe in providing rational, reasonable opportunities for immigrants to become full participants in our nation.
We believe we have a moral obligation to not just greedily accept the contributions of our immigrant neighbors, but to open paths to citizenship for immigrants seeking full legal status, with all of the rights, responsibilities, and protections that entails.
We believe immigration reform must begin at the federal level and must ensure that families are united, rather than separated.
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We believe a basic principle of a civilized society must be that we will not tolerate inhumane treatment, exploitation, or the creation of shadow societies where people are used for their labor, then left to live in fear.
We believe in the value immigrant workers, students, and families provide to our country and our moral obligation to work for the common good of our neighbors across the street and around the globe. |
In faith,
Jean Hill, Government Liaison, Catholic Diocese
Rev. Eun-Sang Lee, First United Methodist Church
Rev. Steve Klemz, Zion Evangelical Lutheran Church in America
Rev. David Nichols, Mt. Tabor ELCA
Rev. Libby Hunter, Deacon, The Cathedral Church of St. Mark
Fr. Ken Vialpando, St. Joseph Catholic Parish
Rev Mary S. Janda, All Saints Episcopal
Fr. Elias Kuocos, Prophet Elias Greek Orthodox
Rev. Jerrod Lowry, Community of Grace Presbyterian
Rev. Curtis Price, First Baptist Church, SLC
Rev. Tom Goldsmith, First Unitarian, SLC
Rev. Yvonne Lee, Centenary UMC
Rev. Dr. David Henry, Presbyterian, retired