Washington DC, 16 March 2023 (TDI): In recognition of International Day to Combat Islamophobia, the United States (US) Department of State Spokesperson, Ned Price issued a statement today.
He strongly condemned the discrimination, hate, and violence against individuals based on their religion or belief, and was committed to combat anti-Muslim hatred at home and abroad.
Today is the International Day to Combat Islamophobia. We strongly condemn discrimination, hate, and violence on the basis of religion or belief. We commit to combat anti-Muslim hatred at home and abroad. https://t.co/BSotefoF4A
— Ned Price (@StateDeptSpox) March 15, 2023
To mention, the United Nations (UN) General Assembly declared March 15 as the International Day to Combat Islamophobia last year.
This date also marks four years since the terrorist attacks on two mosques in Christchurch, New Zealand. On that day, a gunman killed 51 Muslim worshippers in two mosques and injured another 40.
Ned Price endorsed that the Department of State recognizes the importance of promoting religious freedom and tolerance and protecting individuals from all forms of discrimination, including Islamophobia.
Furthermore, the Spokesperson emphasized that the rise of Islamophobia has led to an increase in hate crimes, discrimination, and violence targeting Muslims around the world, and the US Department of State stands firmly against these acts.
Likewise, he underscored that the US is committed to working with international partners to promote religious freedom and tolerance and to combat hate and discrimination in all its forms.
“Through our diplomatic efforts, we will continue to advocate for the rights of all individuals, regardless of their religion or belief, and work to create a more inclusive and tolerant world,” he added.
As Muslims prepare for the holy month of Ramadan, a time of fasting and caring for communities, the US government pledged to continue to advocate for the rights of individuals to practice their beliefs and speak out on behalf of those who have been denied the ability to do so.
Moreover, the US Spokesperson highlighted that in 2021, the UN Special Rapporteur on Freedom of Religion or Belief reported to the Human Rights Council that institutional suspicion of Muslims has reached epidemic levels.
In the same vein, he asserted that such discrimination and hatred have no place in a world that values human dignity, respect, and equality.
The US government recognized that combating Islamophobia requires the collective efforts of individuals, organizations, and governments around the world.
Thus, the US Department Spokesperson stated that it is time for all nations to unite in their condemnation of Islamophobia and work towards a future where all individuals are treated with respect, regardless of their religion, race, or ethnicity.
In conclusion, Ned Price encouraged all individuals and organizations to join the US in their efforts to combat Islamophobia and promote religious freedom and tolerance around the world.
