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NC Council of Churches

Strength in Unity, Peace through Justice

Compromising values

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Letter to the Editor, Raleigh News & Observer

We would not have chosen to be a part of an issue like this, but we are. The world is watching North Carolina to see what we will do. There is compelling evidence that conspiracy to commit kidnapping and torture were committed by Johnston County’s Aero Contractors. The state should investigate these claims and determine their validity.

To turn away without learning the nature and extent of what has happened here would be irresponsible and morally reprehensible. Torture is never morally justified. Even if it were, it is not expedient. It gives our enemies their most effective recruiting tools.

In a Jan 19 news story The N&O reported that former CIA officials have described extraordinary rendition as an invaluable tool in the fight against terrorists. It is important to also note, however, that numerous former CIA interrogators have decried the use of torture as counterproductive to national security (commondreams.org/view/2009/04/30).

Johnston County’s Aero Contractors appears to be in the business of facilitating torture. If we turn away, we share that guilt. The worst defeat we could suffer as Americans would be to compromise the very values we are supposedly defending.

David LaMotte

N.C. Council of Churches

Raleigh

Read more here: http://www.newsobserver.com/2012/02/03/1826216/compromising-values.html#storylink=misearch#storylink=cpy

About Aleta Payne, Former Deputy Executive Director

Aleta Payne first joined the Council staff in the spring of 2001 as the Communications Associate. She continues to oversee that work along with development, represents the Council in several partnership efforts, and serves in other administrative roles, as well. Aleta is a graduate of the University of Virginia with a degree in government and foreign affairs and spent much of her early career as a journalist. She has three young adult sons who continue to come home to Cary for dinner, or at least groceries, and two young adult terrier-mix dogs who keep the nest from feeling too empty.

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