It’s a tragic commentary on our times that questions about the efficacy of torture are even asked. Unfortunately, in our nation, the president, the vice president, a former defense secretary, a former attorney general, a judge nominated to be the new attorney general, many members of Congress, and some presidential candidates have dodged questions about torture, attempted to justify torture under certain circumstances, or, incredibly, made light of torture. When he withdrew his objections to bipartisan legislation further defining the outlawing of torture in 2006, our president crossed his fingers behind his back and filed a “signing statement” that said he could decide to ignore the law whenever he chooses.

What has happened to us?

Founded on the best of our shared values, America has been a beacon for truth and justice to people all over the world. By resorting to kidnapping, illegal rendition, secret prisons, and torture, we have tarnished America’s image and weakened America’s leadership around the world.
Every major religion has a version of what Christians call the Golden Rule: do unto others as you would have them do unto you. Who wants our enemies to use torture on our soldiers and citizens?

Our government did not abandon or ignore our fundamental values even amid the horrors of our involvement in world wars; our opposition to worldwide domination by totalitarian regimes based on fascism or communism. We simply can not afford to cave in now in our fight against terrorism. National security involves a preservation of religious values and national as well as international laws in addition to military responses to terrorists.

Let’s say “yes” to America and its core values, which means saying “no” to torture.