Letter to the Editor of the Telegram and Gazette in regards to Ereka Street arrests:
To the Editor of Worcester Telegram and Gazette,
The actions and videos of ICE on Eureka Street were horrific and provocative as they poke at old wounds that have always existed and have left our city reeling with feelings of anger and vulnerability.
Worcester Interfaith believes the core tenet of the scriptures and practices of all religions is that everything and everyone belongs and that we are all called and created good. It is a fatal misunderstanding of relationship to see oneself on top, and it is immoral when fear is used to manipulate people. Recent events prompt us to ask, “Who is my neighbor?” Howard Thurman wrote years ago, “Neighborliness is nonspatial. It is qualitative.” Neighborliness has nothing to do with demographics or physical proximity. My neighbor is everyone.
Worcester Interfaith stands in opposition to the escalation of ICE activity and the terror and trauma it brings to our community. Thus, we ask all of our elected officials and current administration to live up to and live out their true vocation in speaking up and on behalf of the immigrant and undocumented community, acknowledging the unjust hate that was so vividly exposed.
Worcester Interfaith does not have a monopoly on wisdom or morality. But I do know Worcester Interfaith loves this City and cares about its life and witness. We care about sustainable housing, fair elections, the climate, eliminating racism, homophobia, Islamophobia, and antisemitism, the scapegoating of our trans and immigrant communities, hunger, and poverty. And most of all, we care that Worcester remains human-centered because it must always be about people.
Mark Nilson, pastor, Salem Covenant Church, Chair, Worcester Interfaith
