Civil and Human Rights Coalition Condemns Fear Mongering and Bigotry Against Muslim Refugees

WASHINGTON – Wade Henderson, president and CEO of The Leadership Conference on Civil and Human Rights, released the following statement in response to the widespread fear mongering against Muslim and Syrian refugees in the wake of the tragic, ISIS-led terrorist attacks in Paris:

“The public discourse offered by some in the wake of the Paris attacks is as shameful as anything I’ve ever heard. The refugees seeking to live here are fleeing the same forces of terror that attacked the people of Paris.  To use these incidents as a pretext for fanning the flames of bigotry against people who have been brutalized and driven from their homes and families is disgusting.

Furthermore, there is a thorough screening process for refugees that provides ample protection against admitting terrorists or criminals. This demagoguery indicates an ignorance of the process and a cynical manipulation of this situation to reflect a larger political objective. Our nation has a longstanding commitment to the protection of refugees that reflects our values as Americans. 

When we accept refugees and integrate them into American life, our nation grows stronger and richer for it. To consider a religious litmus test on accepting these refugees is a cynical and xenophobic ploy that only appeals to the most base fears in our society. We call on those demagoguing this issue to stop immediately.”

Wade Henderson is the president and CEO of The Leadership Conference on Civil and Human Rights, a coalition charged by its diverse membership of more than 200 national organizations to promote and protect the rights of all persons in the United States. The Leadership Conference works toward an America as good as its ideals. For more information on The Leadership Conference and its 200-plus member organizations, visit www.civilrights.org.

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