As interfaith leaders, we are appalled by U.S. Rep. Michele Bachmann's discriminatory and unsubstantiated accusations about Muslims.

Michele Bachmann: "I'm on the case because someone has to question Obama administration's indulgence"
[Photo: Charlie Riedel, Associated Press]

Minnesota is known for its strong track record of interfaith work. Our interfaith alliances run deep and encompass a wide network of Christian, Jewish, Muslim, Buddhist, Hindu and Baha'i groups. We are proud of the trust and goodwill that our synergistic efforts have engendered over the years.

As interfaith leaders, we are appalled by U.S. Rep. Michele Bachmann's discriminatory and unsubstantiated accusations. We strongly repudiate her past and current efforts to malign by association honorable American Muslims and respectable Muslim organizations that are serving our nation with great distinction. We deplore her finger-pointing and name-calling against the American Muslim community.

As faith communities, we have a strong record of standing up to fear, hate and discrimination. Our initiatives under "Minnesotans Standing Together" sent an unambiguous message that as Minnesotans we stand for peaceful coexistence and that we stand against all those who promote fear and demonizing of any group. Read more;