Mr. President,

We, the undersigned, ask that you appoint a qualified Ambassador at Large for International Religious Freedom. This position has remained empty for a year since your inauguration as President of the United States.

Section 101 (b) of the International Religious Freedom Act of 1998 stipulates that the President appoint an Ambassador at Large for International Religious freedom “by and with the advice and consent of the Senate.”

There are many serious religious tensions throughout the world, often resulting in persecution of people of many faith groups.

It is imperative the United States have an Ambassador at Large to advance the right to freedom of religion abroad, to denounce the violation of that right, and to recommend appropriate responses by the US government when this right is violated.

We ask that you appoint an individual with a proven history of commitment to the promotion of international religious freedom. We ask that you make this important appointment as soon as possible.

Thank you,