The Carter Center convened leading academics, activists, and policymakers from around the world Sept. 25-27 to discuss the growing threat of Islamophobia and seek effective solutions. Hate crimes against Muslims are at an all-time high. According to a recent report issued by the Southern Poverty Law Center, the total number of anti-Muslim hate groups in the United States grew 197 percent from 2015 to 2016. In 2016, anti-Muslim hate crimes surged 67 percent, reaching a level of violence not seen since the aftermath of 9/11.
The Carter Center is deeply concerned about the alarming rise of Islamophobia. Ambassador (ret.) Mary Ann Peters, CEO of the Carter Center, stated, “We believe that Islamophobia is a threat to human rights, and to peace and security – and we are devoting resources to understanding and combating it.”
Islamophobia is an affront to our common humanity and our constitutional principles. We urge political leaders and citizens to condemn violence, discrimination, and hate speech against those of the Muslim faith.
Source: https://www.cartercenter.org/news/pr/conflict-resolution-092917.html