John,

When Donald Trump calls immigrants “vermin” and claims they are “poisoning the blood of our country,” he’s not just spewing hate, he’s invoking the language of genocide. And yet across America, the pulpits are quiet. Or worse, they’re echoing him.

Faith leaders, especially those with influence in Trump’s political base, have a moral obligation to speak out. But instead of condemning this cruelty, too many are endorsing it. Instead of offering sanctuary, they’re offering silence. This isn’t just hypocrisy -- it’s complicity.

Here’s the truth: Immigrants contribute over $3 TRILLION to the U.S. economy each year and pay more than $500 billion in taxes. Many do so while being denied basic benefits like Social Security. They are our neighbors, workers, and community and they deserve dignity, not dehumanization.

As the Trump administration rounds up green card holders, valid visa holders, and even U.S. citizens, detaining them in inhumane conditions, faith leaders must decide which side of history they want to be on. Sign and send a message to the leaders of nearly 40 Christian churches and organizations calling on them to stand up, speak out, and tell the truth about immigrants now.

When lies about immigrants are repeated without correction, it doesn’t just endanger lives, it undermines the moral authority of every religious institution that stays silent.

We are demanding that clergy across America reject Trump’s dehumanizing rhetoric and use their influence to defend the truth. Every faith rooted in justice calls for protecting the vulnerable, not scapegoating them.

This is the moment for bold leadership. Churches, synagogues, mosques, and temples must rise to protect the persecuted and welcome the stranger, not vilify them.

Demand faith leaders in the Christian church speak out and tell the truth: Immigrants are human. Immigrants belong. And faith has no place in hate.

Thank you for fighting for immigrant justice and moral accountability in faith communities.

- DFA AF Team