ProgressOhio

Welcome to Columbus and a hat tip for helping to organize the Justice Revival this week which is focused on issues of poverty.

You stated that the "highest levels" of the U.S. govenment have instituted a torture program during a recent local public radio program. You also said that you oppose torture and the organization that you lead, Sojourners, is a sponsor of NRCAT, the National Religious Campaign Against Torture.

However, it was disappointing that you did not mention that the Constitution is worth being defended by holding elected and appointed officials accountable for implementing torture policies. Rev. Wallis, do you believe we are a nation of laws or a nation of persons? It's true that the current administration is scheduled to leave office in less than a year. But, what will be the message to future administrations if those who have implemented torture policies are given "get-out-of-jail-free" cards?

You referenced Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. many times on the radio show related to his work for civil rights and economic justice. Let's also remember his outspoken opposition to the Vietnam War. Dr. King was scheduled to lead hundreds of thousands of people to rally against the war in Washington D.C. a week after he was assassinated. The Iraq War has dragged on longer than WWII and the neocons in power are threatening to expand the war by invading Iran. On-line petitions aren't getting it done. The response has been, "So."

Also, one of your statements must be corrected. You said that you "are glad that Senator Obama, Senator McCain and Senator Clinton have all spoken (in opposition to torture) very clearly." Rev. Wallis, are you aware that Senator McCain voted to allow the CIA to continue torture just a few months ago? Yes, Senator McCain has spoken against torture but unfortunately he has prioritized politics over voting to stop it.

In conclusion, shouldn't a centerpiece of the social justice movement be to defend the Constitution and the rule of law by calling for accountability of our elected representatives? The corporate media is letting the people down by down-playing the recent revelations of a policy of torture implemented by the highest levels of government.

Is it possible that religous social justice leaders are shying away from difficult subjects because some politician or government bureaucrat will cut Faith-Based funding if they are outspoken?

Let's hope not.