Dear Mr. Haygood,
I’m Brad Dacus from the Pacific Justice Institute.
Congratulations on becoming the president and CEO of the Southern Poverty Law Center.
You can’t profess your commitment to Jesus Christ on Sunday while leading an organization that labels your fellow believers as a hate group on Monday.
I know you identify as a follower of Jesus Christ, and I see that the SPLC Board of Directors appreciates your religious beliefs and your concern for human dignity.
I’m also a Christian. But I feel there’s a conflict between the faith we both embrace and the organization you operate.
For almost 30 years, PJI has defended religious freedoms, parental rights, and the freedom of speech. We have represented countless churches, schools, and individuals who felt their rights were violated due to their faith.
However, your organization has classified us as a “hate group” alongside other respected Christian ministries like Focus on the Family and Alliance Defending Freedom.
PJI and those ministries have been helping people express their faith for many years. We aim to love God, our neighbors, and serve our communities with dedication.
Yet, the SPLC’s judgment against us now carries your name.
Mr. Haygood, how do you reconcile your Christian witness with leading an organization that stigmatizes faithful Christian services based on Biblical beliefs?
Can you believe that adhering to Biblical teachings is enough to label a ministry a hate group?
To make it clear, PJI rejects all accusations from the SPLC. We do not promote violence or hatred. The SPLC is mistaken about our nature and purpose.
Your public profile quotes 2 Timothy 1:7, which speaks to the spirit of power, love, and a sound mind. If these words guide your leadership, then the current investigation into the SPLC’s claims should be viewed as an opportunity rather than a threat.
That’s why I would like to invite you for an open and recorded discussion. I’d like you to sit with me and explain why PJI and these ministries should be categorized as a hate group. Please defend the SPLC’s claims.
This discussion extends beyond just PJI and SPLC; it’s about whether Americans can express differing views without facing public vilification and whether strong religious convictions can be expressed fairly in our national dialogue.
I hope you will accept my invitation.
Best,
brad dacus
Founder and President
Pacific Justice Institute
