Trump's Rededicate 250 Prayer Event Draws Criticism for Excluding Non-Christian Faiths
President Trump's Rededicate 250 national prayer event, planned for May 17 on the National Mall, has drawn criticism from interfaith leaders. Of 15 listed faith leaders, 14 are Christian. The Interfaith Alliance called the event intentionally exclusive.
President Donald Trump's Rededicate 250 event, scheduled for May 17 on the National Mall, is billed as a national gathering for prayer and rededication of the country to God. Critics say it is anything but inclusive.
Of the 15 faith leaders listed in the event's programming, 14 are Christian. The one exception is an Orthodox Jewish rabbi. No Muslim, Hindu, or Buddhist leaders appear on the schedule, despite earlier statements from organizers that the event would represent America's full religious diversity.
The Rev. Paul Raushenbush, CEO of the Interfaith Alliance, called the event "intentionally exclusive" and said it misses a chance to reflect the country's actual religious makeup.
Freedom 250, the nonprofit organizing the event, received $100 million in federal funds from the Department of the Interior for the nation's 250th anniversary plans. The event's website features a cross inside an American flag and invites churches to register.
Critics say the event reflects a broader push to position Christianity as the country's official religion. Pentagon Chief Pete Hegseth has reportedly held monthly Christian worship services at the Pentagon, adding to those concerns.
Supporters of the event say it is a sincere expression of faith and patriotism, not an attempt to exclude anyone.
