USCIRF Statement on New Zealand Mosque Attacks

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
March 15, 2019
 

USCIRF Statement on New Zealand Mosque Attacks
 

WASHINGTON, DC – The United States Commission on International Religious Freedom (USCIRF) today condemned in the strongest possible terms the terrorist attacks on Al Noor Mosque and Linwood Mosque in Christchurch, New Zealand. Chair Tenzin Dorjee said:

“We express our deepest condolences to those affected by this horrific act of violence that killed 49 Muslim worshippers and injured dozens more,” said Dorjee. “This terrorist attack is all the more heinous because it targeted places of worship during Friday prayers, an important time and practice for Muslim families. At this time of sadness as we mourn the senseless loss of life, we urge all nations to commit to defend and protect freedom of religion and belief, particularly freedom to worship without fear of putting one’s life at risk.”

###

The U.S. Commission on International Religious Freedom (USCIRF) is an independent, bipartisan federal government entity established by the U.S. Congress to monitor, analyze and report on threats to religious freedom abroad. USCIRF makes foreign policy recommendations to the President, the Secretary of State and Congress intended to deter religious persecution and promote freedom of religion and belief. To interview a Commissioner, please contact USCIRF at [email protected] or Kellie Boyle at [email protected] or +1-703-898-6554.