National Association of Evangelicals puts forth a Statement of Conscience concerning the Dalits

The National Association of Evangelicals (NAE) Board of Directors, last month, unanimously agreed to put forth a “Statement of Conscience Concerning the Dalits" in the country.

The press release from the Dalit Freedom Network said, an agreement between NAE and Dalit Freedom Network (DFN) has been signed for the third time, to combat various issues in India, including the crisis of Caste abuse and Untouchability.

The Statement was written in conjunction with the Dalit Freedom Network (DFN) and was presented to the Board by DFN International President Joseph D’Souza.

During the conference, Dr. D’Souza urged the leaders to “rise to the challenge of facing world' largest and oldest form of mental and spiritual slavery” and to support the challenges faced by the Dalit community in the nation.

The response was overwhelming, said Dr. D’Souza. "NAE’s leadership understands the critical nature of anti–Dalit persecution and has risen to face it with this strong statement."

Richard Cizik, NAE Vice President for Governmental Affairs said, "There are those who suggest that to judge the practices of another culture is unsuitable, and a violation of tolerance. But moral absolutes do exist, there is justice and injustice and evangelicals intend to stand up and demonstrate Christ’s own love for the poor and the oppressed around the world."

The Statement introduces the various evils of the society including "hierarchical mindset, physical violence against Dalits, economic discrimination, social discrimination, and religious persecution." Further the statement contains a "Call to Action" urging the Christian leaders to acknowledge the discrimination facing the Dalits and to call on the Government of the United States to work with Indian leadership to end Caste discrimination.

The Statement of Conscience can be read and downloaded from the NAE's website http://www.nae.net.

The National Association of Evangelicals (NAE) headquartered in the USA, was founded in 1942. It aims to "extend the kingdom of God through a fellowship of member denominations, churches, organizations, and individuals."

It wishes to demonstrate the unity of the body of Christ by standing for biblical truth, speaking with a representative voice, and serving the evangelical community through united action, cooperative ministry, and strategic planning.