Rabbi David Saperstein Nominated as U.S. Ambassador For International Religious Freedom.
During my recent trips to Russia, Rwanda, Armenia and Venezuela, I was asked several timed by religous advocates about the appointment of an ambassador-at-large for International Religious Freedom in the United States. In fact one of the first questions was: “Why is it taking so long to nominate a new ambassador for International Religious Freedom?” Unfortunately, the time it took to nominate a new Ambassador gave the global impression that religious freedom was no longer a priority for the U.S. Government.
It was an unfortunate situation and a bleak reality for some. But, today, there is hope again. On Monday, July 28, 2014 Secretary John Kerry announced that Rabbi David Saperstein was the nominee for ambassador-at-large for International religious Freedom at the State Department.
This is beneficial because Rabbi Saperstein knows what religious freedom means. He also understands the importance of eradicating the persecution of religious minorities worldwide. It is highly improbable that any religious freedom advocate will challenge his experience, competence, and qualifications for the position.
I had the privilege of meeting Rabbi Saperstein about 20 years ago. It was during the preparation of the new International Religious Freedom Act. Rabbi Saperstein was heavily involved and when the U.S. Commission on International Religious Freedom has to choose a Chair, the chose Rabbi Saperstein. His role in the passage of the Religious Freedom Restoration Act was still emblazoned in the memories of many of the voters.
Admiring Rabbi Saperstein’s credibility and devotion to Religious Freedom, I sent him my first and very modest draft of the World Report on Religious Freedom. I did not expect a response from Rabbi Saperstein, but received a very endearing one.
In 2009, the IRLA was pleased to present to Rabbi Saperstein the IRLA/NARLA/Liberty Award during the 7th Religious Liberty Dinner. His speech was informative and encouraging to all of the NGOs represented at the dinner. In the same year, Rabbi Sapersein was named the most influential Rabbi in America by newsweek magazine and the IRLA knew that we had made the right choice in giving Saperstein the award at our annual dinner.
It is my hope and the hope of the entire IRLA staff that the Senate will confirm Rabbi Saperstein’s new position. It is a commonly held belief that bipartisanship is necessary to improve religious freedom endeavors worldwide and to give hope to the millions who are persecuted for their beliefs.
-- Dr. John Graz, Secretary General, International Religious Liberty Association