The Persecution of Christians

Dear Mr. Olmo:

     Thank you for contacting me to express your concerns about the persecution of Christians. I share your concern about violations of religious freedom and other human rights abuses against Christians and other religious groups across the globe.

     In an effort to promote tolerance and respect for religious freedom worldwide, the 105th Congress passed the International Religious Freedom Act, which was signed into law by President Clinton on October 27, 1998. This law authorizes the U.S. government to impose sanctions in response to violations of religious freedom in foreign countries.  This law also established an Ambassador at Large for International Religious Freedom, a Commission on International Religious Freedom, and required annual reports on the state of religious freedom around the world.

     Congress has been active in ensuring that the International Religious Freedom Act is implemented and enforced effectively.  In recent years, Congress has considered legislation condemning religious intolerance and reprehensible human rights conditions in Iran, Syria, Egypt, Sudan, and China, to name a few.  I will be sure to keep your views in mind as the Senate continues to address religious persecution and other human rights abuses.  

     I appreciate your taking the time to be involved and informed about such matters.  If you have any other concerns, please do not hesitate to contact me.

                                   Sincerely,

                                   Bill Nelson

P.S. From time to time, I compile electronic news briefs highlighting key issues and hot topics of particular importance to Floridians.  If you'd like to receive these e-briefs, visit my Web site and sign up for them at http://billnelson.senate.gov/news/ebriefs.cfm