“The Trump administration’s bigoted rhetoric and policies are emboldening white supremacist, neo-Nazi and unapologetically anti-Muslim groups. This toxic climate of hate is contributing to an alarming rise in violence and harassment, especially against immigrants, refugees and American Muslims,” said Margaret Huang, executive director of Amnesty International USA. “All over the world, we’ve seen what happens when governments encourage hate and fail to protect vulnerable communities. We will not stand idly by while this government turns its back on human rights and promotes an agenda of hate and fear.
“Free expression is a human right, but so is the freedom to live without fear of persecution based on where you come from, what you look like, and how you pray. We must reject hate and stand up for human rights for all.”
Amnesty International is joining dozens of groups and members of Congress in calling on mayors in the cities where the anti-Muslim protests are scheduled and other elected officials to condemn hate and hate-motivated violence.