As Quakers, members of a religious organization within the Maine Council of Churches, we agree with its recent press release condemning the inaccurate and inappropriate remarks of Rep. Lawrence Lockman against Ben Chin, a Christian who is a candidate for political office as the mayor of Lewiston.
(Neither we, nor the MCC, base our objections to Rep. Lockman’s denunciation of Chin as a hater of Christians on the political or religious affiliations of either man.)
We are deeply saddened that the remarks reflect a harsh tone inappropriate in an elected official, and we consider them potentially dangerous in our communities.
Such prejudicial statements, aimed at someone considered “the other,” diminish the speaker, and coarsen the social fabric and personal interactions.
They can incite correspondingly strong and negative reactions, as shown in recent attacks in cities in Africa, India and Europe — most recently, in Paris.
People of any religion or none found a welcoming community in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania established by Quaker William Penn.
The political foundations of the United States include those of separation of church and state — we cherish the free exercise of religion and a spirited, truthful and non-personalized debate about political matters.
Neither Chin’s religion, nor that of Rep. Lockman, should be a factor in considering their suitability for political office, or the correctness of their views.
Sue Reilly, Minot
Christine Holden, Lewiston
Cecilia Treworgy, Lewiston
Members of Lewiston Monthly Meeting Quakers
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