Rev. Tom Reese, S.J. Elected Chairman of USCIRF

Rev. Tom Reese, S.J. Elected Chairman of USCIRF June 23, 2016

Good news from our friend Father Tom Reese! The well-loved Jesuit was elected chairman of the United States Commission on International Religious Freedom.

“I am honored to serve as USCIRF’s Chair and work with my fellow Commissioners in support of freedom of religion or belief. World events underscore the importance of this fundamental right:  A key factor in many of the United States’ foreign policy challenges, religious freedom is under serious and sustained attack across much of the globe. As an independent, bipartisan federal government commission, USCIRF provides recommendations to help the President, Secretary of State, and Congress protect and advance this precious freedom.”

The USCIRF is an independent, bipartisan commission that advises the United States government on issues of religious and conscience rights around the world.

Commissioners are appointed by the president and leaders of both parties in Congress. The Ambassador-at-large for International Religious Freedom is an ex-officio member. Rabbi David Saperstein is the current ambassador.

The USCIRF operates on a tiny budget and enjoys political support from both parties in Congress.

My best wishes to Father Reese, his fellow commissioners, and USCIRF staff as they protect and promote human rights.

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