WASHINGTON –Interfaith Alliance President Rev. Dr. C. Welton Gaddy issued the following statement on the passing of U.S. Senator Frank Lautenberg:

"Our thoughts and prayers go out to the friends, family and constituents of Senator Frank Lautenberg. He was a true friend and ally in the cause of protecting religious freedom and the equal rights of every American regardless of race, religion or sexual orientation. He was the last of the World War II generation in the Senate, a war that profoundly shaped the actions of him and his colleagues. His experience and his wisdom will be missed, and those that come after him would do wise to look to his legacy for guidance."