Earlier today, the Maryland office of the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR) joined an interfaith coalition of human rights and advocacy groups in signing on to a letter led by Justice For All, expressing mounting concerns over plans by the group Vishwa Hindu Parishad of America (VHPA) to hold a controversial event this Saturday, January 20 in Gaithersburg.
SEE: Letter to Montgomery County MD regarding celebration of hate in public school
The coalition letter, addressed to the Montgomery County Council, reads in part:
“We wish to express our deep concern regarding an upcoming event hosted by VHP-America at a local public high school in Montgomery County. This event, advertised as a celebration of the construction of a temple in India, is intended to celebrate the coordinated destruction of a 500-year-old mosque and the construction of a temple on its site.
“We recognize the importance of freedom of speech and assembly, but are deeply troubled by the nature of this event, especially considering VHP’s documented history of violence and intolerance in India towards Muslims & Christians. Such actions, widely reported and condemned, include mob violence against these communities and acts that undermine the principles of religious freedom and human rights.”
SEE: BRIDGE INITIATIVE FACTSHEET
The groups signed on to the letter include:
Justice For All
Hindus For Human Rights
CAIR Maryland
Indian American Muslim Council
International Society of Peace and Justice
Council on Minority Rights in India (CMRI)
Coalition for Democracy and Secularism in India
Justice America
The groups are urging an immediate review of the decision by the County Use of Public Facilities (CUPF) to allow this event to take place on public school property. CUPF manages the rental of public spaces including public schools in the county.
The coalition has offered to engage in dialogue and provide further context, and seeks to work with the County Council to ensure that public spaces remain safe and respectful environments for all members of our community.
CAIR is America’s largest Muslim civil liberties and advocacy organization. Its mission is to enhance understanding of Islam, protect civil rights, promote justice, and empower American Muslims.
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CONTACT: CAIR Maryland Director Zainab Chaudry, 410-971-6062, zchaudry@cair.com