Today, the Union of Orthodox Jewish Congregations of America – the nation’s largest Orthodox Jewish umbrella organization – commended President Donald Trump for issuing an executive order affirming and protecting religious liberty in federal law and policy.

The executive order signed today at a Rose Garden ceremony includes provisions:

• directing federal agencies to “vigorously enforce federal law’s robust protections for religious freedom”;
• guaranteeing fair and equal treatment under the law for religious individuals and institutions that speak about “moral or political issues from a religious perspective”;
• charging cabinet secretaries to “address conscience-based objections” to the service mandates in the Affordable Care Act.

Orthodox Union Executive Director for Public Policy Nathan Diament, who attended the Rose Garden ceremony, stated:

“As a minority faith community in America, the Orthodox Jewish community depends upon robust legal protections for religious exercise.  When these legal protections are weakened – as they were under the last administration – our community’s freedom is weakened. Thus, we are grateful that President Trump has made it clear that his administration will promote and protect the religious liberty of Americans of all faiths wherever possible. We look forward to working with the White House, Justice Department and others to implement the principles laid out in today’s executive order.”

Orthodox Union President Moshe Bane stated:

“Today, President Trump spoke of the United States as “a nation of faith and tolerance.”  These are fundamental elements that have enabled the Orthodox Jewish community to flourish in this country. We applaud the president for his firm commitment to these principles.”