Latest news with #InternationalReligiousFreedom
Newsweek
3 days ago
- Politics
- Newsweek
It's Time to Restore American Leadership on International Religious Freedom
In February, following President Donald Trump's inauguration, I was in a packed International Religious Freedom (IRF) Summit auditorium when Vice President JD Vance gave an speech, describing IRF as "a topic whose importance grows with each passing moment." He was right, and the landscape of oppression and persecution continues to deteriorate internationally. Regimes, often in the press for their heinous violations of human rights, destabilizing global order and peace, are some of the worst offenders. Russia, China, North Korea, and Iran, leading a rogues' gallery of autocratic villains, constantly attack people of faith and places of worship in order to undermine any allegiance that is devoted to a power higher than their own. Additionally, deadly waves of violent extremism in places like Nigeria and India are devastating whole communities and going unchecked. President Donald Trump delivers an address to the nation accompanied by Vice President JD Vance, Secretary of State Marco Rubio, and Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth from the White House on June 21, 2025, in Washington,... President Donald Trump delivers an address to the nation accompanied by Vice President JD Vance, Secretary of State Marco Rubio, and Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth from the White House on June 21, 2025, in Washington, D.C. More Carlos Barria - Pool/Getty Images There are both humanitarian and deeply strategic reasons for prioritizing international religious freedom in foreign policy. Where such freedoms are safeguarded, democracy is more robust, local and regional conflicts are less likely, cross-border migration is reduced, and prosperity and the prospect of lucrative business and trade opportunities abound. Regimes that do not respect or properly defend the inalienable rights of their citizens to exercise their religious beliefs in freedom are not contributors to international peace and prosperity, and they are not reliable partners. When the United States champions this cause, it strengthens relationships with emerging democracies, builds trust with civil societies, and counters the influence of dictatorships that use religious repression as a weapon of control. President Trump in his first administration demonstrated resolute leadership in prioritizing religious freedom in foreign policy, founding the International Freedom of Religion or Belief Alliance (IRFBA), establishing and hosting annual ministerial conferences to advance the issue with governments around the world, engaging forcefully with nations that violated this right, and advocating for the release of prisoners of conscience. In his address at the IRF Summit, Vance acknowledged that effort, stating, "The first Trump administration took critical steps to protect the rights of the faithful by rescuing pastors persecuted by foreign regimes or bringing relief to faith communities facing genocidal terror from ISIS." While the comments of JD Vance, and the appointment of Marco Rubio as secretary of State—a long-devoted champion of the cause—served as encouraging indicators of the new Trump administration's commitment to advancing this issue in foreign policy, the U.S. is not meeting the standard it has set for itself or fulfilling the role the rest of the free world has come to expect. Other nations are stepping up to the plate. The Czech Republic's Robert Řehák, special envoy for holocaust, interfaith dialogue, and freedom of religion, has been an outspoken and resolute advocate for individuals imprisoned on account of their faith. He has hosted purposeful events on combatting antisemitism and anti-Muslim hate. He will be hosting the annual ministerial for the second time in Prague in November. The U.K. special envoy has launched a focused religious freedom policy platform at the U.K. Foreign Office. Germany recently made the auspicious appointment of veteran member of the Bundestag, Thomas Rachel, as its new commissioner for freedom of religion or belief following their recent elections. Many other nations are driving forward in collaboration to tackle the scourge of persecution. Nevertheless, the outsized power, influence, and resources the U.S. offers are still needed if lasting progress is to be achieved. The U.S. has traditionally served as the elder statesman and guiding light among international partners, but the State Department's absence at the head of the table this year has not gone unnoticed. Congressman Mark Walker was nominated in April to serve as ambassador-at-large for international religious freedom and his background and record offer great promise. The U.S. Senate Foreign Relations Committee has not yet given the nomination its consideration. At a time when the role of IRF ambassador demands both moral conviction and diplomatic skill, the pastor and former representative from North Carolina offers both. His leadership would immediately enhance America's ability to convene partners, engage international institutions, and ensure that religious liberty remains a key pillar of U.S. foreign policy. His confirmation would enable the U.S. to stand shoulder-to-shoulder with its allies, contributing its considerable influence on the international stage, and working effectively and strategically to defend all who suffer because of their spiritual convictions or religious identities. While delivering on an IRF ambassador would not solve every problem, or in itself represent a giant leap forward in religious freedom policy, it would restore leadership within the State Department, empower the IRF Office to ramp up engagement, and create opportunities for much needed development and innovation in this field. Vice President Vance promised that this administration would do even more than was achieved during Donald Trump's first term to advance religious freedom at home and abroad. With the ongoing rise of authoritarianism around the world, extremists operating at liberty, and faith communities enduring unspeakable persecution, the U.S. Senate must step up and get Walker's confirmation resolved. He and Secretary Rubio would make a powerful alliance at the State Department, strengthening American leadership on this vital issue. Miles P. J. Windsor serves as director of strategic campaigns for international strategies at the Religious Freedom Institute. The views expressed in this article are the writer's own.
Yahoo
11-06-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
New York City Faith Leaders Endorse Freedom Plaza as a "Symbol of Hope for a Brighter Tomorrow"
In a powerful show of support, 22 clergy back the Soloviev Group and Mohegan's proposed development, citing affordable housing, job creation, and long-term community investment. NEW YORK, June 11, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- A coalition of 22 faith leaders from across New York City has issued a public letter in support of the proposed Freedom Plaza development, describing the project as "an investment in the future of our community." The open letter, which appeared in the New York Amsterdam News, reflects a shared belief that Freedom Plaza will advance economic opportunity and enhance community well-being. Signatories of the letter include Rev. Walter P. Alston Jr., Metropolitan Missionary Baptist Church; Rev. Dr. Lisa Jenkins Brown, St. Matthews Baptist Church; Rev. Earl B. Chester, Greater New Beginning Baptist Church; Ambassador Suzan Johnson Cook, Former US Ambassador-at-Large for International Religious Freedom; Rev. James Duckett, Fort Mott Baptist Church; Rev. Dr. Roger L. Hambrick, Green Pasture Baptist Church; Rev. Dr. Frankco J. Harris, Mt. Olivet Baptist Church of Hollis; Rev. Adrian Hines, Senior Pastor, Temple of New Beginnings Baptist Church; Rev. Joseph J. Jones, Mt. Hermon Baptist Church; Rev. Carl Leach, Senior Pastor, Ms. Zion Baptist Church; Rev. Robert Linden, Bethelite Institutional Baptist Church; Rev. John Marshall, Senior Pastor, New Life Baptist Church, Brooklyn; Rev. Lindon McKenzie, Senior Pastor, Grace Baptist Church of Chris; Rev. Dr. Lemuel Mobley, Living Stone Baptist Church; Rev. C. Ramónt Morris, Bethel Baptist Church; Rev. Wesley Payne Jr., Senior Pastor, Old Mt. Zion Baptist Church; Rev. Akin O. Royall, President, New York Progressive Baptist State Convention, Inc.; Rev. Brian D. Scott, Union Baptist Church; Rev. Dr. Gary V. Simpson, Concord Baptist Church of Christ; Rev. Dr. Randy Ware, Greater Mount Pleasant Baptist Church; Rev. Dr. Jesse T. Williams, Jr., Convent Avenue Baptist Church; and Rev. Kevin Williams, Senior Pastor, Peoples Baptist Church. "One of our most important responsibilities as faith leaders is to look after our congregations and community," the letter states. "This transformative project will help revitalize our community, address critical needs, and create a brighter future for all residents and small businesses in the area." The letter highlights two urgent priorities facing New York City: the need for sustained economic revitalization and the persistent shortage of affordable housing. The faith leaders applaud Freedom Plaza's ability to address both through the projected creation of 17,000 high-quality full- and part-time union construction jobs and permanent positions and the inclusion of more than 500 affordable housing units. "Safe, stable, and affordable housing is a fundamental right, and too many families in our community struggle to find housing they can afford," the letter continues. "This development will provide much-needed relief and offer families the stability they need to thrive." "We are honored to have the support of so many of New York City's faith leaders, whose dedication to community well-being reflects the core values of Freedom Plaza," said Michael Hershman, CEO, Soloviev Group. "Freedom Plaza remains committed to delivering critical affordable housing, creating thousands of union jobs, and investing in the long-term prosperity of neighborhoods. Together with our partners and neighbors, we are building a future that uplifts and strengthens our city." "The Spirit of Aquai — rooted in welcoming, mutual respect, cooperation, and building strong relationships — guides everything we do at Mohegan. Freedom Plaza embodies these values and represents a shared vision for inclusive growth," said Ray Pineault, CEO, Mohegan. "We're honored to partner with Soloviev Group and New York City's faith leaders to help bring that vision to life." The letter also commends the proposed Community Reinvestment Fund which is projected to invest over $250 million over the next 20-plus years directly into local initiatives that will support education, job training, small business development, and community health. The coalition of faith leaders joins the strong base of support for Freedom Plaza from across the city. A recent poll conducted by Tulchin Research found that nearly two-thirds of Manhattan voters are in favor of the project, with especially high approval in Midtown East, where 57 percent of voters support the proposal. Freedom Plaza has also earned endorsements from 26 leading labor unions and workforce development organizations, including the Building and Construction Trades Council of Greater New York, SEIU 32BJ, and the Hotel and Gaming Trades Council. About Freedom PlazaDeveloped by Soloviev Group and designed by BIG-Bjarke Ingels Group, Freedom Plaza spans 6.3-acres from 38th to 41st Street east of First Avenue. The mixed-use development, which will be built only with union labor, will deliver 1,049 new residential units, including 513 units of housing that working people can afford and feature approximately 5 acres of public open space designed by OJB Landscape Architecture, along with locally oriented retail and a wide range of shopping and dining options. Additional amenities will include a daycare center, food market, a museum dedicated to democracy and community center. Two world-class hotels from global resort leaders Mohegan and the owners of the Banyan Tree hotels and resorts will feature retail, dining, and entertainment, including the option of modern gaming for those 21-and-over. For more information, visit About Soloviev GroupUnwavering in its commitment to environmental sustainability and social responsibility, the Soloviev Group brings four generations of successful development across community-focused verticals, including hospitality, residential and commercial development, agriculture, energy, logistics and philanthropy. The firm's most recent project, Freedom Plaza, will encompass more than six-acres on Manhattan's East Side from 38th to 41st Street east of First Avenue and is committed to helping New York City thrive. The mixed-use development will feature 4.7 acres of publicly accessible green space; two world-class hotels by global resort leaders Mohegan and the owners of the Banyan Tree hotels and resorts, featuring the option of modern gaming for those 21-and-over; locally oriented retail and an array of shopping and dining options; a museum dedicated to democracy and community center; and two residential towers with housing that working people can afford. For more information, visit About MoheganMohegan is the owner, developer, and manager of premier entertainment resorts in the United States and Canada. Mohegan's U.S. operations include resorts in Connecticut and Pennsylvania and Canadian operations are based in Niagara Falls, Ontario. The brand's iGaming division, Mohegan Digital, provides cutting-edge online gaming solutions to Mohegan's loyal fan base and meets the digital needs of North American customers. Mohegan is owner and operator of Connecticut Sun, a professional basketball team in the WNBA. For more information on Mohegan and its properties, please visit Project rendering is available for download here. Courtesy of Freedom coalition of faith leaders letter in support of Freedom Plaza can be downloaded here. View original content: SOURCE The Soloviev Group
Newsweek
15-05-2025
- Politics
- Newsweek
Upholding Religious Freedom Abroad Advances America's Vital National Interests
Advocates for ideas and draws conclusions based on the interpretation of facts and data. Newsweek AI is in beta. Translations may contain inaccuracies—please refer to the original content. Religious freedom is the heartbeat of America's 249-year history, a principle etched into its founding and vital to its identity. Under the current administration, countering religious persecution abroad must also be a cornerstone of U.S. foreign policy. The recent nomination of former Representative Mark Walker as ambassador for International Religious Freedom signals a bold commitment to this cause, particularly for Christians facing erasure worldwide. Religious freedom is often dismissed as a buzzword of conservative advocacy, but it should be taken seriously as an issue of immediate humanitarian concern that bypasses polarizing debates. The second Trump administration has already reoriented U.S. foreign policy to restore American economic and military might. Some may dismiss international religious freedom as detracting from these geopolitical goals, when in reality it advances them. A Syriac Orthodox Christian woman holds a lit candle as she attends the Easter mass at the Saint Mary church in the northern Iraqi city of Mosul, on May 5, 2024 A Syriac Orthodox Christian woman holds a lit candle as she attends the Easter mass at the Saint Mary church in the northern Iraqi city of Mosul, on May 5, 2024 ZAID AL-OBEIDI/AFP via Getty Images While all persecuted groups—Jews, Muslims, Yazidis, and more—deserve U.S. attention, the global crisis facing Christians, from China to the Middle East, demands urgent prioritization because of the scarcity of their advocates. Protecting Christians also aligns with America's Judeo-Christian heritage, extending compassion to others and ensuring the nation's moral compass guides its global role. America was born from a hunger for religious liberty. In 1620, the Pilgrims traveled from England to Plymouth seeking a place to worship without fear. This vision shaped the colonies, where Baptists, Quakers, Catholics and others built communities rooted in faith. The 1787 Constitution and 1791 Bill of Rights enshrined this ideal, with the First Amendment barring laws "prohibiting the free exercise" of religion. For two and a half centuries, religious freedom has driven America's story. Christian abolitionists fought slavery, citing biblical justice. Churches and synagogues anchored the civil rights movement, with pastors like Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. preaching equality. Yes, America has stumbled at times—anti-Catholic nativism, Mormon expulsions, and recent antisemitic and anti-Muslim acts have exposed gaps between ideal and reality. The 1998 International Religious Freedom Act (IRFA) mandated action against such persecution, a legacy the current administration can build on, as did Trump's first. Religious freedom is non-negotiable for President Donald Trump's base, who see it as under attack by secularism at home. President Trump has tapped into this, vowing repeatedly to protect faith as a pillar of national greatness and on May 1 establishing the Religious Liberty Commission to advance this objective domestically. Likewise, defending persecuted Christians abroad is a rallying cry against tyranny for many Americans. Christians face persecution on a staggering scale. In China, the Communist Party demolishes churches and jails pastors, affecting over 100 million Christians. Pakistan's Christians, barely 2 percent of the population, face lynchings over false accusations of blasphemy, with 2024 seeing churches burned and families displaced. Iran routinely jails Christian converts, imprisoning and executing them for "apostasy." Nigeria is experiencing intense anti-Christian bloodshed, with over 3,000 Christians killed in 2024 alone, and girls abducted for forced marriages by the Boko Haram and Fulani militias. Other faiths suffer, too. In Syria, Iraq, and Iran, Christians, Alawites, Druze, and other religious minorities face overlapping horrors. Alawites are subjected to systematic persecution by the new Syrian authorities, whose roots lie in the violent jihadist movement. The Druze in southern Syria also face violence from Sunni extremists and militias linked to the new Syrian authorities. Mark Walker's record of supporting measures against antisemitism and Islamophobia shows a broad vision. His nomination as ambassador for International Religious Freedom will ensure the effectiveness of this position. As a former member of Congress, Walker understands Washington and the policy process. As a minister, he understands the spiritual toll of persecution. Walker inherits a rich legacy from Trump's first term, which put a stop to ISIS' genocide against Christians and Yazidis in Iraq and Syria. IRF Ambassador Sam Brownback launched a now-annual State Department-sponsored International Religious Freedom Summit that brings together representatives from 100 countries, including Christians, Muslims, Jews, Buddhists, Hindus, Baha'is, Yazidis, and others. Among many Trump first-term successes were the freeing of Pastor Andrew Brunson from Turkey and the 2019 Global Call to Protect Religious Freedom. Walker is now tasked with confronting China's church crackdowns, Pakistan's blasphemy laws, and Nigeria's ruthless slaughter of believers. In Syria, Iraq, and Iran he must navigate complex sectarian violence, advocating for Christians alongside Alawites, Druze, and other minorities. His diplomacy must incorporate a complex mix of sanctions, prisoner releases, and rallying of allies. Christians—some 380 million spanning 190 countries—face persecution of a unique breadth and intensity, with few advocates as powerful as the U.S. This crisis destabilizes regions, fuels mass migration, and empowers anti-American autocrats. Only the U.S. has the muscle—diplomatic, economic, moral—to lead. Sanctions under IRFA, visa bans, and public pressure can counter China's malign influence, stabilize Nigeria, and check Iran's aggression in keeping with President Trump's geopolitical agenda. It should be a mainstay of this administration's foreign policy. Ambassador Michael Gfoeller served as political advisor to the U.S. Central Command and is a member of the Council on Foreign Relations. Greg Gross served as deputy assistant secretary of Defense and is vice president of the Board for Solidarity with the Persecuted Church. The views expressed in this article are the writers' own.
Yahoo
12-04-2025
- Politics
- Yahoo
Trump appoints former North Carolina congressman to lead Office of International Religious Freedom
(WGHP) — Former pastor and U.S. Rep. Mark Walker, who represented North Carolina's 6th Congressional District from 2014 to 2020, will serve as Ambassador-at-Large for the Office of International Religious Freedom, according to a post made to his X account. On Thursday, Walker released the following statement reacting to the selection. Thank you @realDonaldTrump for the honor of being selected to serve as Ambassador at Large Nomination of International Religious Freedom. As a former minister, along with serving in Congressional leadership, I'm open-eyed to the bad actors and regions committing these atrocities against people of faith. I know President Trump is a defender of faith evidenced by his bold statement on religious liberty at the United Nations, 'Today, with one clear voice, the United States of America calls upon the nations of the world to end religious persecution.' I await the Senate confirmation process and look forward to working with VP Vance, Susie Wiles, Secretary Rubio, Director Ratcliffe and the incredible team @POTUS has assembled. Religious expression is the foundation of human rights and, whether it's a college campus in New York or Sub-Saharan Africa, I'll be relentless in fighting for those targeted who dare to live out their faith. I'm grateful to my beautiful wife and family for their support. May God provide the path and may we have the courage to follow. Let's get to work, Mr. President. @RepMarkWalker, X According to its website, the IRF Office 'promotes universal respect for freedom of religion or belief for all as a core objective of U.S. foreign policy.' In this role, Walker will 'advance the right to freedom of religion abroad, to denounce the violation of that right, and to recommend appropriate responses by the United States Government when this right is violated, integrate United States international religious freedom policies and strategies into the foreign policy efforts of the United States,' and other duties. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
