North Carolina/U.S. – Statement regarding the attack on the U.S. Capitol Building
North Carolina/U.S. – Statement regarding the attack on the U.S. Capitol Building
Statement from the Grand Master of Masons of North Carolina Regarding the Domestic Terrorist Attack on the Unit. States Capitol Building
January 8. 2021
Brethren: The mob that attacked Congress and subsequent insurrection that engulfed the heart of the democracy we hold dear are abominations. As responsible citizens and upright Masons, we know and confirm that there is no place within our hearts or our society for hatred, bigotry, or prejudice. The actions that were taken in Washington on January 6th were not done out of love of country or patriotism – but out of hatred and intolerance of others. From our teachings and ritual we know that it is our duty to spread the light of knowledge, understanding, and compassion that will eradicate ignorance, paranoia, and self-delusions.
There is no place within Freemasonry for extremism. There is no place within Freemasonry for willful ignorance. There is no place within Freemasonry for intolerance.
Affiliation or membership with any organization that seeks to undermine the integrity of our nation, to divide people based on the color of their skin, orientation, or religion, or to promote the welfare of one group of people at the expense of another is repugnant to the institution and foundation of Freemasonry. It is impossible to be a Freemason and be aligned with any subversive association such as Ku Klux Klan, Proud Boys, QAnon, Neo-Nazism, or any other such domestic terrorist group, extremist association, or white supremacy movement that seeks to promote one people and viewpoint over another by hostile means.
Remember, as a Freemason, every human being has a claim upon your kind offices. You are to do good unto all.
I call on all members of the Grand Lodge of Ancient, Free and Accepted Masons of North Carolina to root out these cancers within society and even within our own institution. We are better than that, and we will continue to serve this nation as promotors of peace, understanding, and thoughtfulness. I am continually comforted — and you should all be heartened — by the fact that this fraternity is a community of bridge builders — those who seek to improve society.
As we move forward into the New Year, I urge you all to be compassionate, attentive, and open to new ideas and differing points of view. Our world is changing, and we have before us an opportunity to improve it through good deeds and thoughtful engagement.
Live in peace, and may the God of love and peace delight to dwell with and bless you.
