Fanning the flames of intolerance can lead to attacks on Muslims, Arabs, Sikhs, and others. As Americans, we must reject Islamophobia, Antisemitism, and hate in all its forms, says President.

WASHINGTON - On this day eight years ago, candidate for President Donald Trump proposed his Muslim travel ban. Like millions of Americans, I was appalled. The proposal was a cynical ploy. It was about sowing fear and distrust of Muslim Americans and all Muslims — not about protecting our national security. It betrayed America’s long history of welcoming people of all faiths and no faith at all. And it violated a fundamental principle enshrined in our Constitution: that the United States is built on a foundation of religious freedom. 

When President Trump followed through on his proposal and signed an executive order banning citizens from primarily Muslim countries, it stained our national conscience. It was cruel. The order separated loved ones and inflicted needless pain. By jeopardizing our alliances and partnerships around the world, President Trump undermined America’s national security. Shamefully, he’s now calling for another travel ban.

Let me be clear: Muslim Americans are Americans. Period. Fanning the flames of intolerance can lead to attacks on Muslims, Arabs, Sikhs, and others. It’s wrong. I ran for President to restore the soul of America. To unify our country. To protect America’s national security without turning our backs on what makes us a great nation. That’s why on my first day in office, I proudly signed an executive order overturning President Trump’s travel bans. And that’s why my Administration is developing the first-ever National Strategy to Counter Islamophobia and related forms of bias and discrimination.

This is the United States of America. We celebrate the diversity that is our strength. We treat each other with dignity and respect. We reject Islamophobia, Antisemitism, and hate in all its forms. And in moments like these – when there is a heightened sense of fear and suspicion – we work even harder to hold on to the values that make us who we are. We never abandon them.

And as long as I’m President, we never will.