August, 22, 2014, New York, NY -- The leaders of the Union for Reform Judaism, Central Conference of American Rabbis and Religious Action Center of Reform Judaism today posted the following statement:
We are horrified by the barbaric murder of journalist James Foley at the hands of ISIS terrorists. Our prayers are with his family, and we hope they draw comfort from the knowledge that Mr. Foley's life's work as a journalist helped shed light on the suffering of some of the world's most oppressed people.
The growing threat from ISIS is of grave concern to all who value freedom – religious and otherwise. We call on all people of goodwill and governments worldwide to condemn and actively oppose, including through the limited but necessary use of force, the spread of ISIS and its allies. ISIS's reign of terror serves only to threaten the ability of people in the Middle East and Israel in particular – as well as the international community – to live in peace with the security that rights and freedoms ensure.
| Rabbi Richard A. Block President Central Conference of American Rabbis |
Rabbi Steve Fox Chief Executive Officer Central Conference of American Rabbis |
| Stephen M. Sacks Chairman, Board of Trustees Union for Reform Judaism |
Rabbi Rick Jacobs President Union for Reform Judaism |