Friend:

“Amy Coney Barrett’s religion isn’t the problem. It’s her record.” That’s the title of the op-ed written by AU’s Senior Faith Adviser, Dr. Sabrina Dent, published Wednesday in Religion News Service – and it hits the nail right on the head.

As Sabrina writes: “Here are the facts: Barrett has consistently demonstrated hostility toward women seeking contraceptive coverage, LGBTQ people, religious minorities and nonreligious people. Once these views have been established as precedent at the Supreme Court, they will hurt women and the poor, particularly women of color and transgender Americans. They may even hurt believers of Barrett’s own religious tradition.”

This reminds me of what our Catholic plaintiff Aimee Maddonna said about her own shock at being turned away by a taxpayer-funded foster care agency because she is the “wrong” kind of Christian: “If you don’t protect the rights of everybody, it sets a precedent that will eventually touch on you.”

Each of us must do all we can to fight for an America where we can all live as our true selves, secure in the Constitution’s promise of equal treatment, no matter what our belief system. The time to speak up is now, because even if we don’t succeed in defeating Barrett’s sham appointment, we can garner momentum for our movement.

If you haven’t already, take a moment today to tell your Senators to vote no on Barrett’s confirmation.

I know at times, as a supporter of religious freedom, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed by the challenges facing the separation of religion and government. We feel it too. But that’s why Americans United is committed to working harder than ever. I am so proud of how our staff is laying a foundation for change and better times!

As the only organization solely dedicated to this issue, we’ll never back down when the Constitution is on the line. We have the strength to do that because of your support.

With hope and determination,