The Nashville Religion Communicators Council Calls for Civil Discourse as 9/11 Draws Near

Online, August 24, 2011 (Newswire.com) - The Religion Communicators Council board of governors has issued a resolution asking for civility, accuracy and tolerance in the 9/11 reporting and discussions.

The Council urged journalists and bloggers to pursue accuracy, respect and understanding of people of all faiths and faith communities.

"With the diverse society we live in today, it's important to create a level of tolerance among all people," says Rev. Brian Fesler, President of Nashville's Council and Pastor of the Nashville Church of Scientology. Fesler goes on, "Only then can we begin to think about understanding one another."

The anniversary of the 2001 attacks could "bring about painful recollections of terrorism and its effects," the national resolution said. Rhetoric about the attacks "could become heated and distorted as it intermingles the religious identity of participants in those heinous acts," the measure continued.

One of the points the communicators want to emphasize is that news coverage of the 10th anniversary of the Sept. 11 tragedy should reflect the need for understanding and dialogue among all Americans and not distort religious views or promote religious intolerance.

In its statement, the RCC board of governors "urges all who report and record news and register, edit or publish opinions about faith communities and religious commitments to adhere to the highest ethical standards of their craft and pursue accuracy, respect and understanding of people of all faiths and faith communities."

Rev. Fesler summed up the Nashville chapter's view with a quote from his own faith: "L. Ron Hubbard once said, 'The hardest task one can have is to continue to love his fellows despite all reasons he should not.' It's time we look for reasons to honor and not denigrate our neighbors."

The Religion Communicators Council is an interfaith association of more than 400 religion communicators working in print and electronic communication, advertising, and public relations. Members represent Baha'i, Christian, Hindu, Scientology, Jewish and Muslim faith communities. Founded in 1929, the council is the oldest public relations professional association in the United States.