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Statement on 2016 Presidential Election
Written by AEU Executive Director Bart Worden
Our nation has been roiled by controversies and divisions in the runup to the 2016 election and, although we may feel relieved that the election season has come to an end, we face an uncertain future with many difficult obstacles before us both at home and abroad.
In his acceptance speech, President Elect Trump pledged that he will “be President for all Americans” and will “seek common ground, not hostility; partnership, not conflict.” We will press Mr. Trump and the rest of our government to make a concerted effort to unify our sorely divided nation and move us forward as passionate global citizens. In her concession speech, Hillary Clinton reminded us that “our constitutional democracy demands our participation, not just every four years, but all the time. So let’s do all we can to keep advancing the causes and values we all hold dear. Making our economy work for everyone, not just those at the top, protecting our country and protecting our planet. And breaking down all the barriers that hold any American back from achieving their dreams.”
The American Ethical Union will continue to respect and support the worth and dignity of all, especially those who have suffered from oppression and faced inordinate difficulties in life. We will encourage people to listen empathetically and work together, despite our differences and disagreements. We will continue to work for a more fair and just economy, for restorative justice, and for applying reason and scientific understanding to meet the many challenges we face. It is our hope that together we can bring about a more just and compassionate society.
Executive Director Bart Worden is Clergy Leader of the Ethical Culture Society of Westchester in White Plains, New York. He currently serves on the boards of The Humanist Institute and the Institute for Humanist Studies. Bart also works with The Ethical Community Charter Schools (TECCS) with a study group to support the schools’ ethical education programs.