Washington, D.C., Dec. 13 – Final 2024 In-Person IRF Roundtable Celebrates Ambassador Rashad Hussain on Capitol Hill
The final in-person 2024 International Religious Freedom (IRF) Roundtable took place on December 9 at the Hart Senate Office Building on Capitol Hill, bringing together representatives from civil society and the U.S. Government to discuss pressing challenges and initiatives in the realm of international religious freedom.
The event began with co-chairs Greg Mitchell and Nadine Maenza honoring Ambassador Rashad Hussain for his outstanding service as the U.S. Ambassador-at-large for International Religious Freedom. The IRF Roundtable community expressed heartfelt gratitude for Ambassador Hussain’s unwavering commitment and impactful contributions, wishing him success in his future endeavors. Ambassador Hussain, in turn, acknowledged the collective efforts of the IRF Roundtable participants and their dedication to advancing religious freedom worldwide.
Appointed by President Joe Biden in July 2021 and confirmed on January 24, 2022, Ambassador Hussain serves as the primary advisor to the Secretary of State and the President on matters of religious freedom. He leads the Department of State’s efforts to monitor and address religious freedom violations globally, combat discrimination and persecution, and forge partnerships with a diverse range of civil society and faith-based organizations worldwide.
Distinguished Guest Speakers
In addition to commemorating Ambassador Hussain, the roundtable featured several prominent government officials and international representatives, including:
– Erin Singshinsuk, Executive Director, U.S. Commission on International Religious Freedom (USCIRF)
– Amanda Vigneaud, Initiative Lead, Center for Faith-Based and Neighborhood Partnerships, U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID)
– Miranda Jolicoeur, Director, Justice, Human Rights, and Security Office, USAID
– Jenny Yang, External Relations Officer, United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR)
Civil Society Contributions and Global Calls to Action
During the event, civil society members addressed key issues affecting regions such as Turkey, Pakistan, India, Egypt, South Korea, and Burma. They also highlighted global efforts to support prisoners of conscience and discussed active multi-faith advocacy letters, including:
1. A call to halt legal proceedings against detained university students linked to the Hizmet movement in Turkey.
2. A letter supporting Senator Marco Rubio’s ongoing dedication to promoting international religious freedom.
3. Encouragement for Senator Rubio to continue his advocacy for prisoners of conscience if he assumes the role of Secretary of State.
A Festive Conclusion
Participants rounded off the IRF Roundtable by sharing holiday refreshments and extending warm wishes to one another during this season of hope and gratitude. The IRF Secretariat expressed deep appreciation to both in-person and online attendees for their unwavering dedication to the cause of religious freedom.
A Farewell Tribute to Ambassador Hussain
As a parting gesture, co-chairs Greg Mitchell and Nadine Maenza presented the following note of appreciation to Ambassador Hussain:
“**Ambassador Rashad Hussain,**
*In sincere appreciation for your dedication and impact during your years of service as our Ambassador-at-large for International Religious Freedom. We are grateful for your ongoing collaboration with the IRF Roundtable.*
Sincerely,
Greg Mitchell & Nadine Maenza, IRF Roundtable Co-Chairs”
The gathering underscored the IRF Roundtable’s continued commitment to fostering global dialogue and action for the advancement of religious freedom, ending the year on a note of hope and solidarity.
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