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Faith leaders in US condemn Hinduphobia
In a letter, an interfaith coalition has demanded fair media coverage, warning against narratives that misrepresent spiritual organizations and individuals.
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A coalition of religious leaders from Hindu, Muslim, Christian, Jewish, and Sikh communities across the United States and globally has issued a letter urging the media to reject anti-Hindu prejudice and adopt balanced reporting.
The letter condemns what it describes as a "recent biased portrayal of Hindus in the media”, warning against narratives that misrepresent spiritual organizations and individuals.
"Media has recently published content that not only promotes Hinduphobia but also biases against individuals and organizations from multiple faith backgrounds," the letter states.
The coalition specifically highlights concerns over coverage of the Science of Identity Foundation (SIF)—a spiritual organization rooted in the Hindu Gaudiya Vaishnava tradition—arguing that it has been unfairly portrayed in ways that promote "fear and animosity towards Hindu practices”.
Religious leaders speak out
Among the letter’s signatories are prominent faith leaders, including:
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Sukhi Chahal of The Khalsa Today, representing the Sikh community
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Hakim Ouansafi of the Muslim Association
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Bishop Mesrop Parsamyan of the Eastern Diocese of the Armenian Church of America, representing Eastern Orthodox Christians
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Archbishop Timothy Broglio of the Archdiocese for the Military Services, a leading voice in the Catholic community
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Dr. Jeffery D. Long of Elizabethtown College, a respected Hindu scholar
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Dr. Richard Benkin of Interfaith Strength, representing the Jewish faith
The leaders emphasized that "the vitality of our democracy depends on embracing our diversity, not exploiting it for discord”.
Growing push for fairness
"The increasing number of voices standing against anti-Hindu prejudice is deeply encouraging," said Jeannie Bishop, president of the Science of Identity Foundation.
"This interfaith coalition's strong stance highlights the power of unity across diverse religious and cultural traditions. If attacks like this can occur against one spiritual path, it can happen against any. Religious bias and religious bigotry have no place in our society striving for inclusivity and mutual respect."
Call for responsible journalism
The leaders stressed the need for ethical reporting, urging media outlets to uphold accuracy, fairness, and integrity.
"For journalism to serve its purpose, it must maintain the highest standards of accuracy, fairness, and integrity, thereby fostering trust and unity among varied communities," the letter states.
By promoting fact-based reporting, the coalition hopes to challenge divisive narratives and reinforce values of inclusivity and equality.
The Science of Identity Foundation welcomed the broad support, calling for fairness and mutual respect in public discourse.
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