Rabbi is new head of US Interfaith Alliance action group

The US-based Interfaith Alliance has announced Rabbi Jack Moline as the new executive director of of the civil rights NGO, effective immediately.

Rabbi Moline assumes this position following the retirement of the Rev Dr C. Welton Gaddy. A past member of Interfaith Alliance’s board of directors, Rabbi Moline served as its chair from 2006 until 2008.

Rabbi Moline will oversee all aspects of the organisation's work and serve as its primary spokesperson. Moline will initially serve in the post on an interim basis, as the board considers all options for the leadership of Interfaith Alliance.

In announcing the appointment, current chair of the board, Helio Fred Garcia said of Moline, “We could not ask for a better leader than Jack for the organisation during this period of transition. The work we are doing is far too critical to allow us to lose any momentum. Jack will make sure that does not happen. He has been a powerful voice in defence of religious freedom for everyone regardless of his or her faith or belief. He understands the value of bringing together diverse voices and perspectives to challenge extremism and build common ground.”

Moline said of his appointment, “Any American engaged in the society around us understands the importance of the work we do at Interfaith Alliance. I have been privileged to be a part of the work of this organisation for more than 18 years in defence of religious freedom. We will not lose any momentum as we continue to protect faith and freedom, challenge extremism and build common ground.”

Interfaith Alliance’s past president, the Rev Dr C. Welton Gaddy added, “Jack has been a friend and ally since my first day at Interfaith Alliance. He really knows the challenges we face and I couldn’t be happier that he answered the call to lead Interfaith Alliance. I made a commitment when I stepped down that I would go from leading this organisation to being it’s most loyal supporter; Jack’s leadership only serves to solidify that commitment more firmly.”

The Interfaith Alliance "celebrates religious freedom by championing individual rights, promoting policies that protect both religion and democracy, and uniting diverse voices to challenge extremism."

Founded in 1994, the Alliance brings together members from 75 faith traditions as well as those without a faith tradition to protect faith and freedom.

* For more information visit www.interfaithalliance.org

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